In South Africa’s property sector, sustainability has become the standard, rather than an optional extra. According to the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA), the focus has shifted from demonstrating the benefits of green building to widespread adoption. Georgina Smit, CEO of the GBCSA, notes that the financial and environmental cases for sustainability are now clear, with environmental urgency being a top priority.
Expanding Sustainability Beyond High-End Markets
To achieve significant impact, green building certification must be accessible and mandatory across all segments of the property sector. The goal is to integrate sustainable practices into all types of developments, including mid-market projects, industrial areas, refurbished buildings, and affordable housing. A sustainable built environment should be the norm for all South Africans, not just a privilege for those in premium commercial or luxury residential areas.
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From Voluntary to Legislated Frameworks
The 19th Green Building Convention, themed ‘The Green Revolution: from Ambition to Action’, took place from 27-29 October 2026. The event recognized property developers, owners, and sustainability consultancies through the GBCSA Leadership Awards. For more information on the winners, visit https://www.gbcsa.org.za/news/all-the-winners-gbcsa-leadership-awards-2026/. Georgina Smit, CEO of the GBCSA, highlighted the importance of industry and government collaboration in achieving a sustainability framework for the built environment that is written into law.
