In a continent rapidly urbanizing, the concept of green building is increasingly becoming popular. As a result, many countries in Africa are gradually moving beyond simply erecting skyscrapers and shopping malls; they are now embracing the idea of more green and sustainable buildings. 

This investment in sustainable construction not only facilitates vital growth, but it also addresses issues such as poverty, unemployment, and climate change. With that being said, in this article, we will explore what defines a green building and why the world needs more of them before finally diving into examples of green buildings across Africa.

What is a Green Building?

Another way to draft the question may be to ask, “what makes a building green?” You see, a green building is one that is designed, built, operated, or refurbished in a way that is resource-efficient throughout its life cycle. Therefore, a building is green when it incorporates eco-friendly features such as waste management, natural lighting, renewable energy, etc., in its design. The materials used to construct it are also usually sustainable and can include non-carbon concrete alternatives, recycled steel, and so on.

Why the World Needs More Green Buildings

Green buildings come with a myriad of benefits. They are not only good for the environment, but they are also pocket-friendly. Here’s why we need more of them in the world:

Climate change mitigation: Buildings account for a large share of global energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. However, green buildings, with their energy-efficient design and use of renewable energy, help reduce the carbon footprint. 

Economic benefits: For property owners and occupants, green buildings often mean lower operating costs. It also means better occupant health and productivity, and increased asset value.

Resource scarcity: Many regions face shortages of water, energy, and raw materials. Green buildings help reduce water consumption and energy demand, easing pressure on infrastructure.

Health and well-being: Better ventilation, daylight, and low-toxicity materials improve indoor environmental quality, which supports the well-being of occupants.

Adaptation and resilience: Especially in regions vulnerable to climate effects such as heat and flooding, green building designs can contribute to resilience by reducing dependencies on fragile infrastructure.

Badass Green Buildings in Africa 

1. Eastgate Center:

This mid-1990s office and retail complex in Harare, Zimbabwe, was designed by architect Mick Pearce. The structure uses a natural ventilation and cooling system inspired by termite mounds. As a result, it reportedly uses just about 10% of the energy of a conventionally cooled building of the same size in Harare. Its design also includes thick thermal mass walls, high ceilings, and clever ventilation shafts. These allow natural air flow rather than heavy mechanical cooling.

2. FNB Parkside Building:

Located in Windhoek, Namibia, the First National Bank (FNB) Parkside building is recognized as Namibia’s first green building. It comes equipped with features such as energy-efficient lighting, maximized natural daylight, and solar power systems that lower its reliance on the grid. Its water-saving fixtures, sustainable construction materials, and smart building technologies also help reduce both resource consumption and operational costs. As a result, the FNB stands as a strong example of how corporate architecture in Africa and Namibia, especially, is embracing sustainability. You can find more amazing examples of sustainable Namibian buildings in our YouTube video below.

3. Inno-native House:

Designed by Joe Osae‑Addo in Accra, Ghana, the Inno-native House uses locally-sourced materials. They include materials like timber and adobe mud blocks. The house also uses clever passive-cooling strategies. This is done by raising the structure about three feet off the ground to allow under-floor breezes. It also has sliding slatted wood screens, full-height jalousie windows for cross ventilation, and an intentional absence of conventional air-conditioning. Inno-native stands as a strong example of blending traditional building knowledge with modern sustainability.

4. Strathmore Business School:

Described as the first green business school in Africa, the Strathmore Business School in Nairobi, Kenya, was awarded the “Best Green Building Development in Africa” in 2012. This is because it incorporates a rainwater harvesting system and uses LED lighting connected to solar PV louvers. It also uses an evaporative cooling system, natural ventilation, and high daylighting.

5. Heritage Place:

Another Lagos-based structure, Heritage Place is a 14-floor Grade A office building in Ikoyi, Lagos. It is popularly described as the first commercial building in Nigeria to achieve LEED certification in both design and construction. This is because it is designed to maximize natural light and ventilation, incorporate rainwater harvesting and water reuse, and use sensors and high-efficiency lighting. It is also said to have energy savings of 30-40% compared to typical buildings in Lagos.

6. The Wings Towers:

Also known as the Wings Office Complex, this luxury twin‐tower Grade-A office building in Lagos occupies around 27,000 m² of lettable space. According to sources, it is LEED certified and has an intelligent building management system. It also comes equipped with 24-hour power backup, as well as a water management system for soil and wastewater.

7. El Mandara Eco-Resort:

This sustainable resort in the Fayoum region of Egypt was built using local materials such as mud bricks and palm fronds. The idea behind the structure was a focus on blending architecture with environment. For this reason, the building uses indigenous building materials sympathetic to the site’s climate and the environment.

Conclusion

In essence, these seven buildings illustrate that green building is not only possible in Africa, it’s already happening, gradually and with creativity. From large international organizations to community-driven prototypes, the projects span the spectrum of size, budget, function, and context.

Furthermore, if Africa is to mitigate the dual challenges of urbanization and climate change, green buildings must move from being ‘nice additions’ to becoming the norm. The good news, however, is that owning or constructing a green building is more feasible now than ever. In addition to this, it is a lot more cost-effective in comparison with traditional structures. 

Here at Redcity, we prioritize green building practices and ensure to incorporate them in our projects. You can discover many of our services here and request a quote here to get started. Also, feel free to visit our YouTube channel here and check out our blog here for more enlightening news and content.

What do you think about these 7 spectacular green buildings in Africa? Let us know your thoughts below.

5 Helpful Tips for Carrying out Sustainable Construction: Your Ethical Guide to Sustainable Construction

The construction industry remains a top contributor to pollution and climate change. It accounts for about 40% of global emissions. This is as a result of a number of factors which range from material sourcing and transportation to waste management.

Now, with rising environmental concerns, the industry is increasingly turning towards sustainable practices and reducing its carbon footprint. This not only benefits the environment but also the construction industry, as sustainable construction also promotes long-term economic and social benefits.

With that said, here are a few practical tips for carrying out sustainable construction.

1. Choose Eco-Friendly Building Materials:

Opt for materials that are renewable, recycled, or have a low environmental impact. For instance, bamboo is perfect for construction because it is durable and it grows rapidly. Moreover, recycled steel gotten from car scraps, shipping containers, oil drums, and the like is another good material.

Also, low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and sealants are safer substitutes to traditional paints and sealants. In addition, concrete alternatives such as hempcrete, fly ash concrete or concrete made using sawdust and wood ash are better options.

2. Reduce Construction Waste:

Always plan to minimize waste from the beginning. To do this, start by ordering materials in precise amounts to avoid excess. Another way is by recycling and reusing materials wherever possible. Additionally, work with suppliers who offer take-back programs so that excess materials can be returned. This way, you avoid excessive waste, and unused materials won't end up becoming pollutants.

3. Incorporate Passive Design:

Passive design involves taking advantage of natural elements to maintain comfortable temperatures indoors. To achieve this, position buildings to maximize sunlight in cold weather and shade in the heat. In addition, use natural ventilation to reduce reliance on artificial cooling. Finally, employ thermal mass materials like concrete, stone, etc. that absorb and release heat slowly. This way, buildings will be less reliant on artificial cooling and heating systems.

4. Prioritize Energy Efficiency:

Design buildings to consume less energy through smart architecture and efficient systems. This can be done by using insulation materials that retain heat or cool air so as to reduce the need for fans and ACs. Additionally, opting for energy-saving HVAC systems and LED lighting helps replace high energy-consuming lighting and cooling systems. Another great option is to consider solar panels and other renewable energy sources instead.

5. Design for Longevity and Adaptability:

Build structures that stand the test of time and can be adapted for future use. Using durable materials like steel and concrete, for instance, helps reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements. In addition, try designing flexible spaces that can evolve with changing needs.

Finally, ensure to plan for disassembly and recycling at the end of a building’s life cycle so as to reduce waste and pollution.

Final Thoughts

In essence, sustainable construction is not just a trend; it’s a necessary shift towards a healthier planet and a more responsible building culture.

By integrating sustainable practices from the planning phase through to completion, builders and developers can create spaces that are both functional and future-friendly.

At Redcity, we prioritize safe and sustainable construction, which is why we abide by these tips. Not only do we build predominantly with recycled materials, but we also limit waste and build long-lasting structures. Check out many of our products and services here and request a quote here to get started.

Also, feel free to check out our blog for more enlightening news and updates. While you're at it, visit our YouTube channel here to discover some of our exciting content and follow us on Instagram @redcityestate for little insights into a few of our construction projects.

Would you be incorporating these sustainable tips in your next construction project? Let us know your thoughts below.

7 Most Sustainable Buildings in the World and Why

In our world today, several buildings exist that defy the odds of traditional architecture. These buildings are different from regular brick-and-mortar buildings not only because of their ingenious designs but also because they embody elements of sustainability and energy efficiency.

Moreover, because of their innovative designs, these magnificent structures have become a vital part of tackling climate change and reducing our environmental footprint.

With that said, here’s a look at 7 of the most sustainable buildings in the world and why they are considered such.

1. Shanghai Tower:

The Shanghai Tower is not only the second-tallest building in the world, but it is also one of the most sustainable skyscrapers. Constructed in 2008, the structure is located in the financial district of Shanghai, China. The tower features a unique twisted design, which allows it to reduce wind loads and makes it more resistant to earthquakes. Additionally, its double-skin façade provides excellent insulation, reducing the need for heating and cooling. The tower also incorporates wind turbines to generate energy, a rainwater collection system, and a geothermal energy source, allowing it to save energy costs and reduce its carbon footprint by 34,000 metric tons a year. This is why it is Platinum certified by LEED, underscoring its commitment to sustainability.

2. The Edge:

Built in 2014, the Edge is often hailed as the world’s most sustainable office building. This high-tech masterpiece, situated in Amsterdam, is not only smart, but it also consumes 70% less energy than a traditional office building. It is recognised as a net-positive energy building because it generates more energy than it consumes, thanks to its 65,000 sq ft of solar panels and its energy-efficient design. The Edge features an intelligent system that not only stores thermal energy but also optimizes natural lighting and reuses energy, reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating. This earns it a 98.4% sustainability score on BREEAM's rating system, primarily because of its use of sustainable materials like glass.

3. One Central Park:

One Central Park in Sydney, Australia, is an innovative multi-residential complex known for its vertical gardens. Plants cover the building’s façade to not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but to also improve air quality. To add to this, the complex has a central thermal plant that provides renewable energy, heating, and cooling. Additionally, it features a rainwater harvesting system and uses low-energy lighting. Thus creating a building that harmonizes with nature while also reducing environmental impact.

4. The Crystal:

The Crystal, located in London, is one of the world’s most sustainable buildings and a symbol of sustainable urban development. It is an events venue that was a sustainable cities initiative by Siemens. The building is fully electric, powered by solar energy, and heated through a ground-source heat pump. This allows it to save on energy costs. It also incorporates a water harvesting and recycling system as well as an ingenious management system that regulates the building’s energy. In essence, the Crystal showcases innovative environmental technology, and operates with zero carbon emissions, making it a notable net-zero building.

5. Bullitt Center:

Considered the most sustainable commercial building in the world, the Bullitt Center in Seattle, USA, is a model of sustainability. It is another net-positive energy building and relies entirely on renewable energy, with a large solar array on its roof. It also utilizes a rainwater filtration system for converting rainwater to potable water. Additionally, it uses geothermal wells for heating and cooling the building and has composting toilets. To add to this, the center can last 250 years, promoting a long-term sustainability approach and therefore making it a trailblazer in sustainable architecture.

6. One Angel Square:

One Angel Square in Manchester is another sustainable office building in Europe that has a BREEAM rating of "Outstanding." The building is powered by a CHP (Combined Heat and Power) system run using rapeseed oil. It also uses geothermal earth tubes for natural ventilation and has a rainwater harvesting system to reduce water consumption, making it highly sustainable.

7. Bosco Verticale:

Bosco Verticale, or "Vertical Forest," are two residential towers in Milan, Italy, that integrate dense tree coverage on their balconies. These towers host over 20,000 trees and plants, which help absorb CO2, reduce pollution, and enhance biodiversity in the city. The building also promotes energy efficiency by providing natural insulation and minimizing the need for artificial cooling and heating.

https://youtu.be/lqvmjAJWS7A?si=m12pkEY6Fj4DNszJ

In essence, these seven buildings exemplify the future of sustainable architecture and sustainable engineering. By integrating renewable energy, resource efficiency, and innovative designs, they set new standards for future construction. Thus, as the world continues to focus on reducing carbon footprints and building smarter cities, these structures serve as inspiring models for architects and developers globally.

Redcity recognizes the value of these exceptional buildings and more, which is why we prepared this enlightening list.

To check out more exciting news and updates, visit our blog here. Discover all of our products and services here and request a quote here to get started. Also, check out our newly launched YouTube channel here and follow us on Instagram so you don't miss out on any important announcements.

What are your thoughts about these 7 most sustainable buildings in the world? Comment below.