The perceptions of green buildings amongst occupiers of commercial buildings in South Africa .
Date
2016
Authors
Reeves, Oliver, Jason
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Abstract
Green buildings are becoming more prevalent within the South African commercial
property market. As it is a relatively new concept within the market, there is a need
to understand what the commercial user perceives as a benefit derived from
occupying a green building and what the barriers to entry are for occupying these
green buildings. An online survey was emailed to 500 occupants of commercial
buildings within Gauteng to gauge their perceptions on the above problems. 131
Functional responses were obtained from the survey and indicated that benefits can
be derived in five main areas notably: environmental sustainability, economic
benefits, competitiveness compared to non-certified buildings, an increase in the
level of workforce productivity and increased branding benefits. The biggest barrier
to entry was that the occupiers of commercial buildings are not really interested in
green buildings and do not perceive it necessary to change their ways. The
conclusion that can be drawn from the research is that there are definite benefits
that can be derived from occupying green buildings, but that a significant increase
in the marketing of the green building movement is required, to inform commercial
occupiers and the general public of the benefits of green buildings to ensure the
sustainability of the earth’s environment.
Description
MBA
Keywords
Sustainable buildings,Office buildings -- Design and construction,Environmental aspects,Green products -- Environmental aspects --South Africa