Green Building in South Africa

This guide examines the costs, benefits, and financial performance of Green Star–certified office buildings in South Africa (PDF, 3.48MB), based on over a decade of research by the University of Pretoria and ASAQS. It challenges the common perception that green buildings are significantly more expensive, showing that the cost premium is modest and decreasing as sustainable technologies become more accessible. Through independent Green Star certification, the study demonstrates both the credibility and market value of green buildings, highlighting superior long-term investment returns and financial performance compared with non-certified offices. The guide synthesises data from certified projects and the MSCI South Africa Green Annual Property Index 2024 to build a clear business case, illustrating that the additional upfront costs are outweighed by higher returns. Additionally, it situates green buildings within South Africa’s climate strategy, emphasising their critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and moving toward Net Zero Carbon, in line with the Paris Agreement targets.

Abstract based on original source.