BUV achieves global EDGE green building certification

On Nov. 21, BUV became the first university in Vietnam to achieve the EDGE Advanced Certification, level 2 in a three-tier certification system. This level requires buildings to demonstrate at least 40% energy savings, double the basic EDGE Certified level.

Thomas James Jacobs (L), IFC Country Manager for Vietnam, Laos PDR, and Cambodia, awards EDGE Advanced Certification to Professor Rick Bennett, BUV Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President. Photo courtesy of BUV

Sustainable development is a global priority in education. By 2030, UNESCO aims for half of all schools worldwide to adopt green practices in curricula, infrastructure, and campus environments. Countries affected by climate change are increasingly pursuing standards that support resource efficiency.

Certifications like EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) provide benchmarks for entities aiming to meet these goals. Developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), EDGE assesses energy, water, and material efficiency. Supported by various international partners, the certification system has been implemented in 170 countries.

BUV's campus meets EDGE Advanced requirements with a 41% reduction in energy use, 22% in water consumption, and 37% less embodied carbon in materials.

Phase 1 of BUV campus construction has received EDGE Advanced Certification. Photo courtesy of BUV

BUV implemented energy-saving measures from design to construction. The campus layout integrates buildings with a regulating pond and green spaces to reduce reliance on artificial systems.

Natural lighting is optimized through honeycomb-style facades that also regulate indoor temperatures. Ceiling fans replace air conditioners in communal spaces, and LED lighting is used throughout the campus.

Shading systems for west- and east-facing buildings minimize heat absorption. These measures reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 196.27 tons annually, equivalent to nearly a 53% cut in total emissions. Solar panels are scheduled for installation in 2026 to further support energy efficiency.

The water system at BUV uses a circulation model, ensuring effective distribution for drinking, sanitation, and irrigation while minimizing waste. Wastewater and waste management are handled by providers in Ecopark, designed to limit environmental discharge.

Every corner of BUV is filled with natural light, fostering a culture of wellness for students while reducing dependence on mechanical systems. Photo courtesy of BUV

BUV's campus incorporates features to improve accessibility. Elevators, parking areas, and pathways accommodate wheelchair users, and classrooms include movable desks to meet diverse needs.

BUV integrates sustainability into its programs and operations.

Events like Value Week focus on environmental responsibility, while the Personal and Social Growth program (PSG) encourages students to develop practical awareness of sustainability issues.

A sustainability mindset is one of the seven key attributes that graduates must acquire and master. This mindset is deeply embedded into the curriculum and every programme throughout students' time at BUV.

BUV's spacious campus ensures high-quality natural air circulation. Photo courtesy of BUV

Professor Rick Bennett, BUV's Deputy Vice-Chancellor, stated that universities influence individual responsibility and social awareness of the youth.

"BUV's model aims to inspire students to contribute to environmental protection efforts in Vietnam. This is the latest step taken by BUV towards its goal of becoming one of the pioneering universities in Vietnam in 'carbon neutrality,' spreading the sustainability message to the wider community," he added.

Thomas James Jacobs, IFC Country Manager for Vietnam, Laos PDR, and Cambodia, commended BUV for adopting green practices and promoting environmental awareness.

Jacobs noted that the EDGE Advanced certification for Phase 1 of BUV's Ecopark campus aligns with efforts to expand green standards in Vietnam. The program supports energy savings, water conservation, and reductions in carbon emissions. BUV's achievement contributes to wider efforts to implement sustainable practices in education and construction.