This paper introduces a novel optimization technique based on gravitational search algorithm (GSA) for numerical optimization and multi-objective optimization of foundation. In the proposed method, a chaotic time varying system is applied into the position updating equation to increase the global exploration ability and accurate local exploitation of the original algorithm. The new algorithm called global-local GSA (GLGSA) is applied for optimization of some well-known mathematical benchmark functions as well as two design examples of spread foundation. In the foundation optimization, two objective functions include total cost and $CO_2$ emissions of the foundation subjected to geotechnical and structural requirements are considered. From environmental point of view, minimization of embedded $CO_2$ emissions that quantifies the total amount of carbon dioxide emissions resulting from the use of materials seems necessary to include in the design criteria. The experimental results demonstrate that, the proposed GLGSA remarkably improves the accuracy, stability and efficiency of the original algorithm.