The Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) has released the first rating tool in a series for South Africa’s Green Star rating system. Further tools will be released this coming November.
The rating system will be used to measure the environmental performance of buildings concerning energy, water, materials, and emissions. The product will also provide an objective assessment of how “green” a building is, said GBCSA Executive Chairman Bruce Kerswill. This will be determined by providing an objective framework and standards for measurement of green building; establishing a common language and act as a guide; and recognizing environmental leadership.
“Green Star SA is a voluntary green building rating system under which developers may apply to have their projects rated and certified by the GBCSA, and there has been enormous interest from the commercial property industry. The tool is published on the GBCSA website and will be available in pilot form until September 1 for testing and public comment.”
The tool will be completed and the results showcased at the GBCSA convention and exhibition held in Cape Town from November 2-4. The first Green Star SA Accredited Professional training courses will take place immediately following the close of the convention.
Green Star SA was designed based upon the Green Building Council of Australia’s Green Star tools and has been customized specifically for South Africa, said Nicola Douglas, CEO of GBCSA.
Concerns for some are the future requirements to ensure buildings comply with the standards of green building, but it may take time to develop a set of uniformed guidelines even once the product is released.