Start Date : 4 May 10   End Date : 6 May 10 Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Green building rating systems are voluntary means by which the environmental qualities of a building can be “graded”. Such systems serve as market drivers to help building industries move in the direction of greater environmental sustainability. This means buildings that use less electricity and water, emit fewer greenhouse gases, have lower transportation impacts, feature better indoor environmental quality, and exist in greater harmony with the local ecology. Green Building Councils (GBCs) are non-profit, member-based coalitions recognised by the World GBC. These private sector-led organisations represent the diverse sectors within the building industry. Green Building Councils develop and implement voluntary green building rating systems, and support the building industry through capacity building and education. National and local governments also can build upon such voluntary rating systems to encourage green building practices through fiscal incentives and outreach. Drawing on the experiences of other countries, including that of the Green Building Council of South Africa, this conference will explore:

• Options for developing and using green building rating systems in the African context.
• How these systems relate to building codes, the provision of low-cost housing, and other means to promote green building practices.
• How GBCs work and how they get started.
• How a new network could promote the establishment of GBCs in Africa.

The event will include expert speakers, panel discussions and interactive forums for attendees. Seating is limited; participation will be by application.
To register, go to " www.unhabitat.org/GreenBuildingRating " and follow directions.

For questions or comments, please send an email to: GreenBuildingRating@unhabitat.org.