The Smarter Building Network is a program developed by the Trinidad & Tobago Green Building Council to recognize and promote the use of green, sustainable practices in commercial spaces. The intent of this program is to reward organizations who demonstrate green stewardship. The Smarter Building Network is not to be confused with energy auditing, or comprehensive green building rating systems such as LEED®, but instead functions to build foundational awareness on environmental stewardship in building operations and maintenance in Trinidad & Tobago. There are four (4) sustainability categories which are achievable in Trinidad and Tobago:
Energy Efficiency
Trinidad and Tobago’s energy use intensity is high in both residential and commercial applications. This can be primarily attributed to the country’s subsidized energy cost, which makes energy efficiency return on investment (ROI) calculations ostensibly unattractive. Subsidies are slowly being removed and thus the ROI will become more feasible. Energy in Trinidad is generated from fossil fuels which embody significant global warming potential resulting in climate change. Fossil fuels are a finite resource and therefore must be utilized wisely whilst alternative energy sources are developed.
The aim is to promote energy efficiency to reduce financial strain on both the customer and the State whilst reducing the country’s carbon footprint.
Water Efficiency
Trinidad and Tobago does not yet have a sufficiently mature culture of water conservation. Water is a precious commodity and delivered at high cost to the taxpayers of the country.
The utility company operates inefficiently with regards to the production and distribution of potable water. End users are currently unaware of the true cost as potable water rates are subsidized and generally unmetered.
The aim is therefore to promote water efficiency. Simple, low or no cost strategies can significantly reduce potable water consumption.
Recycling
Trinidad and Tobago’s waste recycling/ reduction program has been in its infancy for the last decade. New recycling waste programs have recently been initiated, however not yet widespread.
The aim is to create the awareness of recycling and reduction of waste by acknowledging buildings which are sensitive to this issue.
Renewable Energy
Trinidad and Tobago is fully reliant on fossil fuels for the generation of power. Fossil fuel is a limited resource and contributes immensely to global warming.
Trinidad and Tobago should ideally divert away from fossil fuel dependency and strive towards renewable energy generation.