Greening the Built Environment: A Blueprint for Sustainable Construction Part 1: The Urgent Case for Greener Buildings

At the recent International Construction Week (ICW) 2024 in Kuala Lumpur, Ashwin Thurairaj, Executive Director, GreenRE Sdn Bhd, highlighted the pivotal role of green buildings in Malaysia’s sustainability journey. With the built environment contributing nearly 40% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the construction sector is at the forefront of combating climate change.

Malaysia’s Green Commitments
Aligned with the Paris Accord, Malaysia has pledged to reduce carbon intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The government’s strategies include:

Promoting voluntary carbon markets and emissions trading schemes.
Halting deforestation by 2030.
Offering tax incentives for green-certified buildings.

The Role of GreenRE in Malaysia
GreenRE, endorsed by the federal government, is instrumental in driving green certification across the country. Nearly 80% of new developments in Malaysia are GreenRE-certified, covering diverse sectors like healthcare, retail, residential, and industrial facilities.

Key Features of GreenRE Certification
GreenRE evaluates buildings across six pillars:

Energy Efficiency: Enhancing thermal performance, energy-efficient lighting, and onsite energy generation.
Water Efficiency: Encouraging water-saving fittings and alternative water sources.
Environmental Protection: Promoting sustainable construction practices and greenery provision.
Indoor Environmental Quality: Prioritizing air quality, thermal comfort, and natural lighting.
Carbon Emission Reduction: Assessing a building’s lifecycle impact.
Other Green Features: Integrating innovative and sustainable technologies.

Benefits of Green Buildings
Green buildings yield significant advantages for the environment, economy, and society:

Reduced operational costs through energy and water conservation.
Improved occupant health and productivity.
Future-proofing against evolving regulations.
Enhanced appeal to environmentally conscious investors.

Greening the construction sector is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Through GreenRE certifications and strategic government incentives, Malaysia is well-positioned to achieve its sustainability goals while fostering economic growth.