GBCSA and YIPA sign MOU to boost sustainability among young property professionals

In celebration of Youth month in South Africa, the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) and the Youth In Property Association (YIPA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

This signals greater collaboration between the two organisations which are playing a role in shaping the future built environment in South Africa.

The MOU has a strong focus on knowledge sharing and events as the two organisations aspire to learn from each other and work together to ensure more sustainable buildings and practices in the local property sector.

“We are truly looking forward to greater collaboration with the energetic members of YIPA. Through this MOU we hope to boost awareness of environmental sustainability issues with the youth in the property sector and to provide support to bring about solutions together,” says GBCSA CEO Lisa Reynolds.

“We’re really looking forward to working closer with the GBCSA. We have always been focused on finding new and innovative ways to increase the participation of young people in the property sector and this MOU does just that. The sustainability of our planet cannot be achieved without thinking differently about how property is developed and managed. This alliance with the GBCSA will ensure that young people in property become a part of the broader conversation and ultimately contribute to the security of our future,” says YIPA chairperson, Monedi Lefakane.

Because real estate contributes over one third of global emissions (IEA), there is growing pressure on the property sector to address climate change. The physical risks to property from the changing climate, and the reputational risks of inaction against climate change mean that more companies and governments are making commitments to tackle these issues.

The GBCSA is committed to working in this regard and to transform the South African built environment to a place where people and planet thrive. A well-informed and empowered youth, who are currently rising in the property sector, will be vital in making this transformation happen.

A strong focus of the MOU is that YIPA members will be entitled to preferential pricing for training with the GBCSA. Courses, both standard and bespoke, offered by the GBCSA provide great insight into sustainability and unlock opportunities for further collaboration and entrepreneurship.

“We can’t wait to welcome YIPA members into our training programmes. There is a world of green building and sustainability insight waiting for them. We are also eager to better understand the concerns of younger property professionals, particularly when it comes to sustainability,” says Jean Rodel, Head: GBCSA Academy.

Both YIPA and the GBCSA look forward to rewarding collaborations going forward.