NEWS too expensive and now it is virtually part of standard development practice . The market is quickly getting to a point where being green is no longer an option but instead integral to creating a quality asset and to retaining tenants .”
THE PANDEMIC ADDS MOMENTUM
“ From the pandemic experience , there are two focus tracks that we see influencing the adoption of green and sustainable buildings ,” says Samson Moraba , Chairperson of the Board at TUHF . “ Firstly , that buildings generally ( whether an office or apartment building ) have a significant role to play in combatting Covid-19 because this is where people come together . This means that buildings can be used as part of the prevention and containment measures to combat the spread of the virus .”
“ Secondly , the condition of buildings becomes an important consideration . This is where the issue of green buildings becomes prevalent as these buildings offer enhanced measures to control and prevent the spread of the virus . This includes things like promoting natural light and ventilation in the building design , the quality of building materials and indoor spatial planning for physical-social distancing ,” he continues . With both financial and human health factors driving greening residential property , TUHF is working hard to back Luhlaza up with finance and demonstrate how their buildings are contributing towards establishing green environments that are feasible over a long-term . It has been difficult to gain traction in the residential environment because of the unique energy make-up of each building . Ultimately , TUHF ’ s focus is to ensure that the end-user benefits the most from green initiatives .
“ At TUHF we remain passionate about our Massive Small vision – to create impact through scale . This vision is central to the ethos of the Luhlaza Initiative , which aims to connect investors who want to invest in a green product and property entrepreneurs who want to create green assets that will not only contribute to their portfolios but also positively impact the environment and society ,” Moraba concludes .
www . saaffordablehousing . co . za JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2021 5