ABSTRACT
The global real estate industry has a substantial environmental impact, consuming 40% of global energy and contributing 20% of greenhouse gas emissions. To align with the Paris climate conference's 2°C goal, the industry aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 36% by 2030. This paper presents a Zambian case study of a real estate developer's application of green building principles for EDGE certification. The study also assesses challenges faced by property developers in emerging economies when implementing sustainable practices. Findings show the developer achieved EDGE certification by implementing energy-efficient systems, water conservation techniques, and waste reduction practices. These efforts resulted in a 50% energy usage decrease, a 55% water usage decrease, and a 34% embodied energy reduction in materials. The study highlights the importance of green building certifications in promoting sustainable real estate development and suggests regulatory support and public-private partnerships can address challenges in emerging markets.
