Green building index in enhancing healthcare facility sustainability
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15282/construction.v6i1.13058Keywords:
Green Building Index, Healthcare Facility, Sustainable Healthcare, Energy EfficiencyAbstract
The green building index (GBI) is an important certification tool to promote sustainable practices and energy-efficient building designs. This study investigates the implementation and effectiveness of the GBI in public hospital buildings in Malaysia. A qualitative research approach was employed, combining an extensive literature review with semi-structured interviews involving five key stakeholders from the Ministry of Health and the Public Works Department, including engineers and an architect involved in the planning, construction, and management of healthcare facilities. Thematic analysis identified three themes: GBI’s influence on sustainability outcomes, GBI’s overall effectiveness in promoting sustainable healthcare facilities, and the measurable benefits achieved through GBI’s implementation. The results show that GBI implementation in Malaysian public hospitals provides substantial benefits including improved energy and water efficiency, reduced operating and maintenance costs, and enhanced indoor environmental quality that supports patient recovery, staff well‑being, and overall operational sustainability. The study also underscores alignment with Malaysia’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities. The findings offer practical guidance for policymakers, facility managers, and designers on utilising GBI criteria to enhance sustainability in the planning, design, and management of healthcare facilities. Future research could expand the scope to private healthcare facilities and apply mixed method approaches to deepen understanding GBI’s impact across diverse healthcare contexts.
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