Parksmart certification for parking garages
All spaces should be built sustainably, benefiting the environment and creating lasting value. For parking garages, achieving green certification can make a big difference, even though traditional LEED certification isn’t available for these structures.
Instead, Parksmart certification, created in partnership with LEED, is designed specifically for parking facilities to ensure high performance and sustainable practices.
What is Parksmart certification?
Parksmart provides a dedicated green certification framework for parking garages, focused on efficient energy use, reduced environmental impact, and operational savings over time.
A Parksmart-certified garage can operate up to 25% more efficiently than a standard garage, thanks to improved lighting, ventilation, sustainable materials, and systems for capturing water runoff. These features contribute to a more eco-friendly and cost-effective structure in the long run.
Why does green certification matter?
A green certification provides multiple benefits to property owners looking to optimize their investments, such as:
- Long-term savings: Although the initial cost of building a Parksmart-certified garage may be higher, the investment pays off with long-term savings in energy, water, and maintenance costs. The structure’s design reduces operational expenses over its lifespan, making it a wise financial choice.
- Positive environmental impact: Green certifications like Parksmart emphasize environmental responsibility. By using more efficient materials and managing resources effectively, certified parking garages have a smaller environmental footprint, helping reduce waste and emissions.
- Flexibility for new and existing garages: Parksmart offers certification options for new and remodeled structures. The primary Parksmart certification applies to new garages, while the Parksmart Pioneer option enables existing garages to undergo sustainability-focused upgrades.
The value of Parksmart certification
The Parksmart certification demonstrates a commitment to sustainable building practices, appealing to environmentally conscious businesses and consumers alike. It sets parking structures apart by offering a thoughtful, eco-friendly approach that aligns with modern values of efficiency and responsibility.
With Parksmart, the result is more than just a green label. It provides an innovative, forward-thinking investment that enhances a building’s value and reduces its long-term costs, all while contributing positively to the environment.