Exploring the Integration of Passive Design Strategies in LEED-Certified Buildings: Insights from the Greek Construction Sector

As the global demand for energy-efficient solutions grows increasingly urgent, passive design strategies emerge not only as a means to support the reduction in energy consumption but also as a pathway to minimizing building operational costs while enhancing thermal comfort and architectural attractiveness. On the other hand, the recognition and significance of building environmental certification schemes are steadily increasing worldwide. Within this context, this research investigates the extent to which passive bioclimatic principles are understood, applied, and incentivized in contemporary sustainable building practices in Greece—focusing in particular on their representation within the LEED certification credit structure. Drawing on a questionnaire survey completed by 89 experienced Greek construction professionals, the findings indicate a significant gap between the theoretical value attributed to passive design and its practical implementation. The respondents attribute this gap to two key factors within the Greek context: the lack of adequate education and awareness among key project stakeholders, and the considerable complexity associated with the collaborative frameworks required from the early design stages. Additionally, LEED appears to offer limited incentives for integrating passive design strategies. Instead, it tends to favor technological solutions and follows a standardized structure with minimal scope for regional customization. Enhancing LEED’s region-specific features to reward passive strategies proven effective in local contexts would be particularly expedient in reinforcing its role as a robust and impactful tool for promoting sustainability.