09 Apr 2013

The current buildings regulations date back to the 1970s when there was limited knowledge on the concept of green buildings, says the Minister of Infrastructure, Science and Technology, Mr Johnnie Swartz.

Answering a question in Parliament, Mr Swartz further said environmental issues with respect to buildings were not yet topical as they are today to warrant their inclusion in the regulations.

Thus, he said the regulations did not have any provisions for green buildings. Meanwhile, he said the building regulations board, which fell under the ministry had commenced reviewing these outdated regulations so as to incorporate some of these modern concepts.

He said other issues, which would be considered during the view will include heat penetration through the building envelope and catering for people with disabilities.

He indicated that the review further included fire prevention and control, internal environment conditions in respect of light, sound, ventilation and air quality.

He said the board would make recommendations for processes of obtaining approval for new building materials, elements and technologies related to changes required to improve environmental performance of the buildings.

MP for Gaborone South, Mr Kagiso Molatlhegi had asked him to state whether there were any green building regulations in Botswana and if so which green building rating tools were applicable and who is the regulating authority for green buildings. ENDS