Coinciding with the first Buildings and Climate Global Forum in Paris in March, the International Finance Corporation appointed Bureau Veritas as a Global Certification Provider for EDGE green building certification. EDGE is an innovation of IFC, the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, that empowers emerging markets to scale up efficient buildings in a fast, easy and affordable way. The main objective of EDGE green building certification is to respond to the need for a measurable and credible solution to prove the business case for building green and to unlock financial investment.

In its capacity as Global Certification Provider for EDGE certification, Bureau Veritas will ensure strict adherence to the standards set by the EDGE certification. EDGE certification is recognized by major asset managers and requires quantified reduction in operational energy consumption, water use and embodied energy in materials. Bureau Veritas’ Buildings & Infrastructure team combines its expertise with the entirety of BV’s global footprint in 140 countries. It will support the global expansion of the program, focusing on emerging countries.

The primary objective of this collaboration is to drive the development and certification of resource-efficient and zero-carbon buildings worldwide, in alignment with broader environmental sustainability objectives. Beyond fostering sustainability in the built environment, this partnership aims to advocate for responsible construction practices. It also strives to promote the adoption of standards, labels and certifications in the buildings and construction sector in line with the recent March 2024 Building and Climate Global Declaration of Chaillot.

This significant development aligns seamlessly with Bureau Veritas’ latest strategic plan, LEAP | 28. It emphasizes two key growth engines: expanding leadership in buildings and infrastructure, and establishing a new stronghold in sustainability. By working together with IFC, Bureau Veritas aims to accelerate global decarbonization and inclusive growth.