Be Bold About Buildings: GBCM’s Vision for a Greener Mauritius

• 24 June 2025

Did You Know? Buildings Are One of the Biggest Causes of Climate Change.

It’s true—nearly 40% of global carbon emissions come from buildings and construction.

Every cement block, every non-insulated roof, every outdated air-conditioning unit adds to the climate crisis. In Mauritius, where development is growing fast, this is a real concern.

But here’s the good news: the same sector that causes the problem can also drive the solution.

And that’s exactly what the Green Building Council Mauritius (GBCM) is working toward—advocating for a net zero, sustainable future through bold, informed action.

🌴 Mauritius at a Turning Point

Mauritius is already feeling the effects of climate change—rising temperatures, coastal erosion, water stress.

At the same time, the island is building more than ever: new homes, hotels, offices, malls.

This moment is a critical opportunity to change the way things are built.

The time to act is now.

🧱 What GBCM Is Doing to Lead Change

As a registered NGO and full member of the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC), GBCM is helping Mauritius build a more resilient, low-carbon future. It is one of the few organisations in the region actively pushing for a Net Zero Roadmap in line with national and global climate goals.

Here’s how:

✅ 1. Net Zero Advocacy

GBCM is leading discussions and technical support around a national Net Zero Roadmap for the building sector—aiming to cut emissions from buildings to nearly zero by 2050.

This means greener construction, energy efficiency, renewable integration, and better policy frameworks.

✅ 2. Launch of the NDC Scorecard Tool

To support the government’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, GBCM recently launched the NDC Scorecard Tool.

This tool:

Helps assess how construction projects align with climate targets

Encourages greater accountability and transparency

Makes climate-smart design measurable and trackable

It’s a first-of-its-kind in Mauritius, and a step toward smarter national planning.

✅ 3. Training and Capacity Building

Workshops and courses are regularly delivered to educate professionals about green certifications (EDGE) (GREENSTAR SA), passive design, energy savings, and sustainable materials.

✅ 4. Community Awareness

Through blogs, events, and social media, GBCM spreads awareness about how buildings can affect health, climate, and daily costs—and how they can be improved.

✅ 5. Global Collaboration

As part of WorldGBC, GBCM brings international knowledge and adapts it to the Mauritian context—creating locally rooted solutions for a global challenge.

💡 Why Green Buildings Matter Now

Green buildings are not just good for the planet.

They are better for:

Human health and well-being

Monthly water and electricity bills

Long-term property value

Climate resilience

New job creation in eco-industries

They are the smart, future-proof choice for any country serious about sustainability.

🏘️ What Can You Do?

This transition isn’t just for experts—it needs everyone:

🏗️ Builders & Developers: Apply sustainable standards

🏛️ Government Officials: Support and implement Net Zero policies

🏠 Homeowners: Ask for eco-friendly materials and efficient design

📚 Students & Youth: Spread awareness and innovate

🧑🏽‍🤝‍🧑🏽 Everyone: Support the green building movement and stay informed

💚 Be Bold. Build Green.

The future isn’t just about having more buildings—it’s about building better.

Mauritius has the creativity, the talent, and now the tools to lead a new era of climate-smart construction. GBCM’s work is clear proof that green is not a trend—it’s a necessity.

Let’s be bold about buildings.

Let’s build spaces that don’t cost the Earth.

Let’s shape a future where progress means sustainability.