In the last decade, in parallel with the rise of global warming and associated weather events, Green Building Council South Africa has matured. Today, there is such widespread acceptance in efficient electricity and water use practices that it is a challenge to name an industry that is not adopting green approaches.

“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it,” cites Redefine Properties’ website, a company which, along with other key players in the property sector, has drastically realigned its strategy in the last few years to make green building and sustainable practices an urgent priority.

And the tipping point to treading lighter is found in our buildings. Globally buildings generate one-third of all carbon emissions through their construction and operation, and this is seen in their use of almost half the planet’s energy and more than half of its resources.

The South African treasury, and various municipalities have put several measures in place to encourage investment in green building and green building technologies – including solar energy.

Robust debate on buildings is an important part of advocating for buildings and cities where people and planet can thrive. At GBCSA we know this because advocacy is one of our core activities.