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There are some ingenious local private developers who have embraced green buildings to conserve the environment. Their designs, construction and operations either reduce or eliminate negative impacts on the climate and natural environment.
According to the United Nations Environmental Programme, real estate contributes up to 30 per cent of global annual greenhouse gas emissions. Environmental and construction experts concur that there are some important features that can make a building sustainable. For instance, the efficient use of energy, water, renewable energy (solar), use of pollution and waste reduction measures, and the enabling of re-use and recycling.
According to the Kenya Green Building Society, there were 43 certified buildings countrywide in 2021 - an increase of 100 per cent compared to 2020. Over a decade ago, the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi set the pace for green buildings in Nairobi.
The building houses the headquarters of both UNEP and the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT) were a central pillar of the UN's broader goal of reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The four buildings, which accommodate 1,200 staff, feature solar panels on the roof spaces, automated low-energy lighting illuminating workspaces, and energy-efficient computers. Rainwater is collected to supply the fountains and ponds, sewage is treated in an aeration system and recycled for irrigation and water-saving lavatories.
Since then, environmentalists and architectural firms have been burning the midnight oil to promote green designs countrywide. Some architects are competing to position themselves as leaders in sustainable construction and energy-efficient design even as some clients are slow to take on board the environment-friendly advantages being touted. Some of the touted standards cover the sustainability of building sites, water conservation, energy efficiency, construction materials, indoor air quality, innovation, operation and maintenance.
Some architects advise that assessing the green rating of a building requires considering aspects besides energy efficiency, such as land use, ecology, emissions levels and handling of sewerage waste. As proof that the green buildings are gaining traction in some quarters, the Architectural Association of Kenya recently launched a green building certification tool that assesses projects to establish their environmental performance.
Dubbed Safari Green Building Index, the rating system is a guiding and performance-oriented system where points are earned for meeting specified construction standards.
- Mr Ayodo is an Advocate of the High Court
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