The Dental Learning Center (DLC) of the Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) has officially earned a Gold rating in the Greenship Certification from the Green Building Council Indonesia (GBCI). The achievement was confirmed during the Final Assessment session conducted by PT Sertifikasi Bangunan Hijau on February 11, 2026.
Wulansari, S.S., Head of the FKG UGM Office, explained that this achievement is the result of a long process of meeting green building standards across design, operations, and environmental governance.
“From the beginning, we understood that this was not just about constructing a new building, but about building a sustainable system. We fulfilled every requirement one by one, including even the most detailed aspects,” she said.
According to the assessors from PT Sertifikasi Bangunan Hijau, there are four key strengths of the DLC FKG UGM.
First, structured and consistent waste management. FKG UGM implements a waste segregation system at various points throughout the building and ensures that waste does not accumulate. Sorted waste is managed through partnerships with relevant parties, ensuring a clear and well-documented process flow.
Second, the utilization of rainwater harvesting. The DLC optimizes its rainwater collection system for non-potable uses such as flushing and irrigation. This approach significantly reduces dependence on external water sources while improving water-use efficiency.
Third, land management that prioritizes ecological considerations. The building was not developed using conventional approaches that sacrifice green space. Instead, the area was designed to preserve existing vegetation and maintain a lush surrounding environment.
Fourth—and the most highly appreciated point—is that no trees were cut down during construction. Instead, nine trees located in the affected area were relocated and replanted.
“Not a single tree was cut down during the construction of the DLC. The nine affected trees were relocated and replanted. This became one of the key points appreciated by the assessors,” Wulansari added.
She also noted that the assessment process ran smoothly because all technical documents and supporting data had been thoroughly prepared. According to her, data readiness is a crucial factor in demonstrating that sustainability practices at the DLC go beyond concept and are fully implemented operationally.
The Greenship Certification from GBCI is Indonesia’s national green building standard, which evaluates energy efficiency, water conservation, material and waste management, indoor air quality, and land management. A Gold rating indicates that the building meets high standards in sustainability practices.
This achievement positions the DLC FKG UGM as one of the educational buildings within UGM that comprehensively meets green building criteria. Moving forward, FKG UGM is committed to maintaining these standards through regular evaluations and strengthening environmental management systems at the operational level.
“The real challenge comes after certification. We must ensure that this system continues to run consistently and keeps improving,” Wulansari concluded.
Reporter: Andri Wicaksono | Photo: Fajar Budi Harsakti
