Pakistan's energy sector currently relies heavily on fossil fuels, particularly coal and imported liquefied natural gas (LNG), contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. While renewable energy sources like solar and wind have shown significant growth in recent years, they still constitute a relatively small portion of the country's energy mix. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), fossil fuels accounted for approximately 80% of Pakistan's electricity generation in 2022, highlighting the urgent need for a transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
Earlier this month, the Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives under its Green Zameen Fellowship Program hosted a roundtable cohort. This gathering brought together esteemed lawmakers, industry experts, and other stakeholders to discuss critical issues such as energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable architecture. Dr. Fiaz Chaudhry, the esteemed Chairman of the National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC), graced the roundtable cohort with his insightful keynote address. As the founding Director of the LUMS Energy Institute and holder of the prestigious Siemens Verner-Von Chair, Dr. Chaudhry's expertise in the energy sector is unparalleled. His presentation provided a comprehensive overview of Pakistan's energy landscape, highlighting the critical role of transmission infrastructure in ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply. A key takeaway from the event was the urgent need to reimagine our built environment, from homes to large-scale infrastructure, to address climate change and energy security.
Buildings are not just structures; they are significant contributors to our carbon footprint. The construction industry is a major consumer of resources and a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. However, a new wave of architects is embracing sustainable design principles, prioritising energy efficiency, resource conservation, and minimising environmental impact. This involves a holistic approach, considering the entire lifecycle of a building, from material sourcing and construction to operation and eventual deconstruction.
Minimising energy consumption is paramount. Sustainable architecture emphasises strategies like passive solar design, where buildings are oriented to maximise sunlight in winter and minimise it in summer. Efficient insulation and high-performance glazing further reduce energy loss. Water conservation is also crucial, with rainwater harvesting systems, low-flow fixtures, and drought-tolerant landscaping becoming standard features.
The careful selection of building materials is another cornerstone of sustainable design. Prioritising locally sourced, recycled, and renewable materials, such as bamboo, rammed earth, and timber from sustainably managed forests, reduces the environmental impact of transportation and minimises the use of non-renewable resources.
Furthermore, sustainable architecture focuses on enhancing indoor environmental quality. This includes ensuring good air quality, maximising natural lighting, and providing access to green spaces, all of which contribute to the health and well-being of building occupants.
To accelerate the adoption of sustainable architecture and renewable energy, the government needs to play a crucial role. Streamlining building codes to promote energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices is essential
Another crucial aspect of sustainability is the embrace of the circular economy. By prioritising the use of recycled and renewable materials, designing for easy disassembly, and maximising the reuse and recycling of building components, we can minimise waste and reduce the environmental burden associated with construction and demolition. This approach aligns seamlessly with the principles of green energy by reducing the demand for energy-intensive materials and promoting a more sustainable and resource-efficient built environment.
The IAPEX 2024 competition, held by the Institute of Architects Pakistan in January this year, provided a valuable glimpse into the future of sustainable architecture in the country. Focusing on "Sustainable Futures," it challenged architects to design an eco-friendly entry pavilion for the Pak China Friendship Centre, since it doesn’t have one. This competition served as a platform for showcasing innovative and sustainable design solutions, pushing the boundaries of architectural creativity.
Among the 50+ entries from across the country, 40 were shortlisted as finalists. Notably, the "Eco Cube Pavilion" by NZ Architects garnered significant attention from the jury. While it ultimately did not secure a top spot due to certain factors, this innovative concept remained a highlight of the competition, showcasing the potential of sustainable and circular design principles. This innovative design utilised repurposed wood, leftover building materials, and recycled tires, embodying the principles of the circular economy – transforming discarded materials into functional and aesthetically pleasing structures. The Eco Cube Pavilion demonstrated that creativity and sustainability can go hand-in-hand, transforming discarded materials into functional and aesthetically pleasing structures.
Pakistan, with its abundant solar and wind resources, has the potential to be a leader in renewable energy. Integrating renewable energy sources into building designs can significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and minimise environmental impact. Solar panels can be integrated into building facades, rooftops, or even as shading devices. They can generate electricity to power lighting, appliances, and even heating and cooling systems.
For buildings in windy locations, small-scale wind turbines can be incorporated into the design to harness wind energy. In areas with suitable geothermal resources, ground-source heat pumps can be used for heating and cooling. Green roofs and vertical gardens not only enhance the aesthetics of buildings but also provide insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, and improve air quality.
To accelerate the adoption of sustainable architecture and renewable energy, the government needs to play a crucial role. Streamlining building codes to promote energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices is essential. This includes incorporating performance-based standards that encourage innovation and the use of sustainable materials.
The future of sustainable building lies in collaboration. Architects, engineers, policymakers, and the public must work together to develop and implement practical solutions
Implementing attractive financial incentives, such as tax breaks, subsidies, and net-metering policies, can encourage building owners to invest in renewable energy technologies. Government support for research and development in sustainable building technologies, such as advanced building materials, innovative energy systems, and green building technologies, is crucial for long-term success.
Investing in education and training programs for architects, engineers, and construction workers to enhance their knowledge and skills in sustainable building practices is also vital. Raising public awareness about the importance of sustainable architecture and the benefits of renewable energy through public campaigns and educational programs is equally crucial.
The Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB), now merged with the Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB), has taken steps to promote renewable energy, such as implementing feed-in tariffs and supporting renewable energy projects. However, more needs to be done to create a conducive environment for sustainable development.
The future of sustainable building lies in collaboration. Architects, engineers, policymakers, and the public must work together to develop and implement practical solutions. By fostering a culture of innovation, investment, and collaboration, we can build a greener, more resilient, and prosperous Pakistan for generations to come.
This requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, including the government, the private sector, and the public, to work together towards a common goal. By embracing sustainable architecture and harnessing the power of renewable energy, Pakistan can pave the way for a greener, more resilient, and prosperous future.