Real Estate Investor Magazine May 2025 edition May 2025 | Page 100
By Mary Anne Constable
Green buildings are not only for the privileged few, they are accessible and beneficial to all. As South Africa faces rising energy costs, water shortages, and growing investor pressure for assets that meet ESG( Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria, the property industry must adapt.
Contrary to common misconceptions, green buildings are not inherently more expensive. In fact, they deliver longterm financial and environmental benefits, often at little to no extra cost.
The Green Building Council South Africa( GBCSA), an independent third-party verifier, defines a green building as one that reduces its environmental impact across multiple areas, including energy and water efficiency, material use, waste, indoor air quality, transport access, and socio-economic benefits.
Green Buildings: Afford and Ready for the Future
Commercial
By Mary Anne Constable
Green buildings are not only for the privileged few, they are accessible and beneficial to all. As South Africa faces rising energy costs, water shortages, and growing investor pressure for assets that meet ESG( Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria, the property industry must adapt.
Contrary to common misconceptions, green buildings are not inherently more expensive. In fact, they deliver longterm financial and environmental benefits, often at little to no extra cost.
The Green Building Council South Africa( GBCSA), an independent third-party verifier, defines a green building as one that reduces its environmental impact across multiple areas, including energy and water efficiency, material use, waste, indoor air quality, transport access, and socio-economic benefits.