Green building movement in South Africa

South Africa isn't exactly a market leader in renewable energy, but like any up-and-coming market, there is always a possibility that ideas and financing get a foot-hold, and within a short space of time the country can make enormous strides.

This could now be a possibility, as indicators in the South African market for green buildings look poised for rapid growth. And the sustained development of the market is likely to be ensured should government, non-governmental organisations and the private sector work in collaboration.

Indeed, last week's appeal by the Minister of Public Works Geoff Doidge for a greener built environment signifies that the wheels are turning for a cleaner, greener south Africa.

"Our recent analysis of the South African green building market found that this market, whilst still in its infancy, has high potential for growth," says Frost & Sullivan environmental technologies analyst Linda Harding. "The growth in membership of the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) indicates that the South African market is responding well to green building initiatives."

Private sector involvement

The key for a green building initiative is to educate people about the cost benefits of going green, and the savings doing this can accomplish. This doesn't need to be a government aided saving, as contractors and other workers can feel the financial benefit.

"The private sector has a strong degree of influence over the growth of the South African green building market, as it comprises both the potential consumers and suppliers of green building products and services," Harding says. "Evidence of early change within the private sector is readily apparent."

A strong legislative environment, supported by sufficient financial incentives, has been found to be the most important factor in driving and sustaining the development of green buildings markets. Highly developed and rapidly growing green buildings markets, such as those in Asia, are strongly supported by strict legislation and regulatory environments.

"As yet, South Africa does not have any legislation enforcing green initiatives in the built environment," says Harding.

For the benefit of South Africa, the legislation needs to take a foot-hold sooner rather than later.

Related articles:

SA and Kenya make big green strides | Rwanda gets $120m in green funding from WB | Africa powers on with green projects | Power & Energy - Wind Power

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