Recently my friend back in Korea who took bachelor degrees of
Architectural studies in UNSW together has contacted me. While we were catching
up he mentioned he is taking this course to receive LEED certification and
tells me it is a big trend all around the world. Hmm..is it? While I had
this doubt in my mind I found an interesting article about LEED does not work
in some areas and why.
LEED
stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, and has become the
most recognized standard for “green” building in over 30 countries worldwide.
LEED is a point system that grades buildings throughout design, construction
and performance. However, many more of the points are simply irrelevant or
financially irresponsible. In some cases, adherence to these credits can
actually be detrimental to project success and community prosperity. When
considering rural development in Africa, the needs and standards of
construction must shift not simply to a new geographical and cultural context,
but to one of development needs and capabilities. Energy standards must first
recognize the importance of electricity itself a major step forward. What
Africans want is to develop. Therefore they need energy that can be produced on
an industrial scale. Like clean coal burning, oil production and electricity. I
suggest that we should start first by allowing them to achieve this
instead of imposing them our environmental propaganda.
(image showing existing kitchen rennovated with new roof and fuel efficient wood burning stove; Courtesy of Charles Newman of Afritekt)
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