Paper short abstract:

Buildings worldwide consume energy and add to greenhouse gas emissions. Innovative energy-efficient construction combined with traditional designs can create better buildings for local climates. Local and international partnerships are promoting such renewable energy strategies across the MENA region.

Paper long abstract:

The UNEP has estimated that buildings worldwide consume over 40% of global energy, including 60% of electricity, and 25% of water resources. The construction sector produces over 30% of greenhouse gases and is the largest contributor to global emissions. Electricity and fuel costs burden local communities while urban expansion imposes a strain on national energy grids and degrades the quality of regional air and water.

Fortunately, the building sector offers great potential for innovation in green technologies and high impact energy efficient construction. Significant cost savings can arise from easy fixes, such as adding insulation and low-emissive materials, to larger shifts in the industry toward renewable energy and reduced consumption.

In the MENA region this transition can include both high-tech solutions and traditional building practices that embrace local climates. A strategy that combines vernacular with vanguard techniques is also an opportunity to bridge local, regional and international levels in a larger dialogue. Vernacular design features such as clay brick and natural ventilation can exist alongside solar panels and efficient appliances. The resulting structures consume less energy and boost the employment of local artisans and builders.

In Egypt, local architects have worked on a prototype for a hybrid residential building with both traditional features and innovative renewable materials. Development organizations including GIZ, which represents the EU in spearheading energy-efficient construction across the MENA region, can nurture such projects that begin at the local level. Investment in green construction has great potential for both environmental and economical benefits on all levels.