WHILE we live in the same world, we definitely live in different worlds.
Climate change is real and impacts the world in many ways, but the treatment is different, depending on a country’s focus and priorities. The opportunity to discuss the way forward is presented at the Conference of the Parties (COP), and currently, the world is gearing up for the 29th edition of COP.
Zimbabwe is poised to play a critical role in shaping a sustainable future for its citizens and the global community. COP29 offers Zimbabwe a timely opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to sustainability and accelerate progress towards its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
The conference will bring together global leaders to discuss and address the most pressing climate challenges, including the role of the real estate sector in driving emissions reduction.
In 2015, Zimbabwe submitted its Intended NDCs to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), committing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 33% by 2030.
The country's NDCs prioritise transitioning to a low-carbon economy, with a focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable land use.
This commitment is not just a government mandate, but a call to action for the private sector, particularly the real estate industry.
As a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, the real estate sector is expected to actively participate in Zimbabwe's efforts to meet its NDCs.
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The real estate sector is believed to contribute 40% of carbon emissions globally. At the same time, it accounts for approximately 20% of the country’s carbon footprint in Zimbabwe, primarily due to energy consumption and building materials.
However, this sector also presents significant opportunities for mitigation and adaptation. The real estate industry stakeholders strongly influence the direction of developments in the climate discourse, such as investing in green infrastructure.
This includes planning regulations taking cognisance of the call to action for a green environment.
Green building practices can help adopt sustainable building management practices. Real estate developers and investors can play a vital role in attaining Zimbabwe’s NDCs by embracing sustainable building practices, energy-efficient design and renewable energy sources.
Zimbabwe’s real estate sector is poised for growth, driven by increasing demand for housing, commercial spaces and infrastructure development.
The adoption of green building practices can significantly enhance a country’s NDCs in several ways:
Green building practices can significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from buildings, which account for a substantial portion of a country’s overall emissions.
They also promote sustainable development by conserving natural resources, reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly materials.
Green buildings are designed to be energy-efficient, which can help reduce a country’s reliance on fossil fuels and decrease energy consumption.
The green building industry can create new job opportunities and stimulate local economies.
Green buildings can improve indoor air quality, natural lighting and thermal comfort, improving public health and well-being and increasing organisational productivity.
Through green building practices, buildings can be designed to be more resilient to natural disasters and climate change impacts. Cyclone Idai and its destruction live on in Zimbabwe’s memories.
Countries adopting green building practices can align their NDCs with global sustainability goals, such as the Paris Agreement and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Green building practices can help countries increase their NDC ambition and achieve more significant emissions reductions.
Further, the practices can be integrated into sectoral approaches, such as developing green cities, leading to more comprehensive and coordinated climate action.
Green building practices can facilitate international cooperation and knowledge sharing, leading to global best practices and accelerated climate action.
The Green Building Council of Zimbabwe is currently working with UN-Habitat to develop world-class building codes that could be adopted and benefit the nation.
By incorporating green building practices into their NDCs, countries can enhance their climate commitments, achieve sustainable development and contribute to global efforts to address climate change.
Reduce energy consumption: Implement energy-efficient building designs, materials and systems to minimise energy waste.
Embrace renewable energy: Invest in on-site renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Promote sustainable transportation: Incorporate green transportation options, like electric vehicle charging infrastructure and pedestrian-friendly designs.
Enhance water management: Implement rainwater harvesting systems and efficient water use practices.
Support sustainable communities: Develop inclusive, resilient and connected communities prioritising social equity and environmental stewardship.
As Zimbabwe prepares for COP29, the interplay between the real estate sector, sustainability and NDCs takes centre stage.
By embracing sustainable practices and innovative solutions, the real estate sector can significantly contribute to Zimbabwe’s efforts to address climate change and achieve its NDCs.
The time for action is now — let us work together to create a sustainable, resilient and prosperous future for all Zimbabweans.
- Juru is the chairperson of the Green Building Council of Zimbabwe and the chief executive officer of Integrated Properties. — +263 773 805 000.
