As the real estate industry in Kenya continues to grow, sustainability has become increasingly important. With global environmental concerns rising, getting a green building certification is no longer just a trend but a necessity for developers aiming to meet regulatory requirements and market demands.
Green buildings are structures that reduce negative environmental impact. There is a gaining traction and Kenyan developers are beginning to take notice.
Here is what every developer, engineer, architecture or anyone building needs to know about the Green Building Certification.
Table of Contents
What is Green Building Certification?
Green Building Certification is a formal recognition that a building meets specific sustainability standards. These standards are designed to ensure that the building is environmentally friendly, energy efficient and contributes positively to the health of its occupants.
We will look at some of the bodies that offer these certifications below.
READ MORE – Sustainable Construction Practices and Materials: Building a Greener Future
Why is Green Building Certification Important?
The Green Building Certification has both environmental and financial benefits. Certified buildings are designed to reduce carbon emissions, lower energy consumption, and decrease waste production. These factors contribute to lowering operational costs over time and increasing asset values, making them attractive to investors and tenants.
Some of the benefits include:
- Environmental Impact – Certified buildings reduce environmental damage, helping Kenya meet its climate goals.
- Cost Savings – Energy-efficient buildings can significantly reduce operational costs, especially in areas like water and electricity.
- Marketability – Certified green buildings are often more attractive to buyers and renters, especially businesses looking to align with sustainability goals.
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How to get your building certified?
There are several international and local green building certifications available for developers in Kenya. The choice depends on the project’s scale, goals, and target market. Some of the organizations leading in these space include:
- EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)
This organization was developed by the IFC (International Finance Corporation). They focus on making new buildings more resource efficient.
One of the requirement is that buildings need to reduce energy water and material usage by at least 20%
- LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
This certificate is one of the most recognized green building certifications worldwide. The certification covers several aspects of sustainability. This includes from water efficiency and energy use to building material and indoor air quality.
Silver, golf or platinum status are awarded based on meeting various sustainability criteria.
- Green Star Certification
This certificate is majorly popular in South Africa but gaining a lot of traction in Kenya. It evaluates the environmental impact of a building’s design, construction and operation.
Points are awarded based on factors such as energy, water use, indoor environmental quality and emissions.
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Conclusion
Green building certification is becoming increasingly vital for Kenyan developers as the demand for sustainable, environmentally responsible structures continues to grow. By embracing green building practices, developers can not only reduce the environmental impact of their projects but also enhance the marketability and long-term profitability of their properties.
READ MORE: Climate Change and Its Impact on Kenyan Real Estate: Insights from the Africa Climate Summit
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