The Analysis of the EDGE Certification System on Residential Complexes to Improve Sustainability and Affordability

In this paper, the characteristics of Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) green building certification system terms scope certification, and environmental social strategies focused on 6024 units 17 EDGE-certified residential buildings South Africa was investigated. This research analyzed efficiency energy, water, embodied energy materials, annual CO2 emissions their contribution to solving housing issues given context. revealed that design focuses “efficiency first” approach reduced water demand more than on-site production. energy-saving strategies, solutions are three times (69.2%) higher energy-generating (23.1%). The results resource savings showed that, average, materials (54%) is most resource, followed by (31%) (29.7%). statistical analysis indicated there no statistically significant correlation between with floor areas buildings. addition, highlighted how EDGE has positively contributed Africa’s shortage affordable scarcity problems.