POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

IMPACT 10

Official publication of the Green Building Council of South Africa

GREEN INNOVATION Pushing the boundaries, one step at a time

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IMPACT The official publication of GBCSA

WINNER

PROPERTY PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR 2019

Editor Mary Anne Constable maryanne@positive-impact.africa Director Danielle Solomons danielle@greeneconomy.media Editorial Contributors Melinda Hardsity Nicole Cameron Growthpoint Nexxagen GBCSA Editorial Advisory Georgina Smit Jenni Lombard Jo Anderson Proofreader Bilqis Rawoot Design and Layout Carla Lawrence, CDC Design Media Sales Gerard Jeffcote Lino Vermaak Vania Reyneke

Joint Publishers Gordon Brown gordon@greeneconomy.media Danielle Solomons danielle@greeneconomy.media

Chief Executive Officer Lisa Reynolds

Head of Content Alexis Knipe

Chief Financial Officer Pardon Mutasa

Production Administrator Melanie Taylor

Marketing Manager Christy Borman

Web Digital and Social Media Steven Mokopane GEM.tv Head of Production Byron Mac Donald MPeople Resourcing (Pty) Ltd t/a GreenEconomy.Media Reg no. 2005/003854/07

Cover image: Pareto Head Office, Sandton.

– Pareto Limited

All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any way or in any form without the prior written permission of the Publisher. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the GBCSA or the Publisher. All editorial and advertising contributions are accepted on the understanding that the contributor either owns or has obtained all necessary copyrights and permissions. GBCSA and the Publisher do not endorse any claims made in the publication by or on behalf of any organisations or products. Please address any concerns in this regard to the Publisher.

CALLING ALL THOUGHT LEADERS +Impact Magazine, the official publication of the GBCSA, presents thought leadership from local and international green building commentators and practitioners, and showcases the excellent work of GBCSA members.

Are you a thought leader in your relevant field? GBCSA members are invited to submit stories about projects, design concepts, materials, research, and anything else that promotes a healthy sustainable built environment. Submit a 200-word description of your content idea with 1-2 images to: maryanne@positive-impact.africa

ADVERTISE WITH US For advertising and sponsored content contact Danielle Solomons: danielle@greeneconomy.media Advertising rates are discounted for GBCSA members and further discounts are available for booking multiple editions in 2021.

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INSIGHT A note from the editor, Mary Anne Constable

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INNOVATION BREAKING THE GREEN CEILING How do we innovate? These five projects made the jump from 4-Star to 5-Star due to their innovative features

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RIBUTE T LEAVING A GREEN LEGACY Celebrating Growthpoint’s late Chief Development and Investment officer, Rudolph Pienaar’s contribution to the green building sector

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GREEN LIVING FUTURE-FIT HOME DESIGN Explore Team Mahali’s virtual net zero carbon house from the comfort of your desk

CONTENTS 34

CITIES REIMAGINING THE CITY Nexxagen explores the benefits of sustainable precincts

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TECHNOLOGY LIQUID INNOVATION Water technologies making waves REEN STAR UPDATES G ENSURING STELLAR PERFORMANCE Important updates to the Existing Building Performance Green Star rating tool

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CASE STUDIES GREEN BUILDING SERVICES, MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES 49 Thermguard 50 Water Purification Solutions

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INSIGHT

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In many sectors, the overuse of the term ‘innovation’ has diluted its modern-day meaning. It’s often tacked on as an adjective to make something sound edgy or hip. But what does it really mean to innovate?

Green Innovation

any forecast 2020 to be the year of twenty-twenty vision. Little did they know how wobbly poor 2020 would turn out in the end. What with global pandemics, lockdowns, political and economic challenges, a few natural disasters (etc, etc, etc), 2020 unravelled rather quickly and rolled on into 2021. Many breathed a sigh of relief. “What next?” they speculated.

GBCSA CEO, Lisa Reynolds, says that 2021 will be the year of ‘one’. It’s a move from the collective to the individual, but also a call to action. Will we step up and take responsibility for our role in protecting the planet? Will we recognise that we have one chance to make things right?

These deeper questions will be explored at the GBCSA annual Green Building Convention this October where, for the first time ever, a hybrid convention will bring together people from across the globe physically and/or virtually. You can read more about the convention themed, One – One Planet.

One Chance, on the website: www.gbcsa.org.za Some other big questions are brewing: How do we push the envelope and build greener buildings? How do we innovate more?

Innovation is newness but it’s also an evolution of the old – a ‘making better’ of something. Often innovation requires us to break down old perceptions and see things from a different point of view. Often it requires us to think and imagine outside the boundaries. But sometimes it’s a matter of incremental steps. Doing better, one thing at a time, and eventually finding yourself in a better place than you started.

In this issue we explore some of the different facets of innovation. GBCSA’s strategic use of innovation points and innovation challenges, rewards projects for implementing initiatives – design, construction or performance-related – which are considered to go above and beyond the standard rating tool framework. We explore this more in our 5-Star innovation feature which gives some real-life examples of projects that have pushed the boundary from 4-Star to 5-Star, or even 6-Star.

Inside, GBCSA updates us with changes to the Existing Building Performance rating tool, demonstrating the importance of innovating among existing building stock, and we move on to technology and explore some of the latest innovative water saving and harvesting technologies. Plus, there’s more, but you’ll have to read on to find out what.

As always, we hope these pages will inspire you to find your own “what next?” Take the first step. Turn the page…

Mary Anne Constable Editor www.thepaperarchitect.com

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INNOVATION

Breaking the

Green Ceiling

There was a time when a Green Star rated building was ahead of the curve. Now a 4-Star Green Star rating is very achievable and doesn’t necessarily cost more than an unrated building. So, what’s next? How can innovation inspire green buildings to evolve beyond four to five, or even six green stars?

WORDS NICOLE CAMERON

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Situated in vibey,

cosmopolitan

Rosebank

The first phase of Oxford Parks showcases an inspiring and inclusive urban pedestrian environment defining the evolution of this impressive Precinct with its green star rated buildings. The buildings are a testament to the holistic approach of development, encompassing powerful and unique architectural landmarks with spatial and building system efficiencies, innovative green rated features, creative energy saving measures and a fresh approach to public spaces and their integration to the buildings that surround them.

Developed by: 011 731 1900 www.intaprop.co.za

203 Oxford

8 Parks Boulevard

Tenant: Life Healthcare

Tenants: Metier Private Equity and G+D Currency Technology Positioned proudly on Oxford Road, 203 Oxford showcases various environmental strategies that set out to improve both efficiencies and occupants’ wellbeing.

Integrated seamlessly into the public realm it aims to become a catalyst for urban regeneration.

The Gem of Oxford Parks is positioned on African Square.

This iconic building demonstrates South African Excellence with both environmental quality initiates and positioning to amenities.

5 Star Green Star SA Office v1.1. Design

5 Star Green Star SA Office v1.1. Design

6 Parks Boulevard Tenants: Arup, Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Publishing Known as the lantern of Oxford Parks, 6 Parks Boulevard finds itself nestled in the heart of the Precinct’s first phase. This compact building features a brilliant forest detail across its facade highlighting the Precinct’s green philosophy. Emphasis on green design remains paramount and it is able to deliver on above expected green building initiatives.

4 Star Green Star SA Office v1.1. Design

LIFE CONNECTED www.oxfordparks.co.za

INNOVATION

Infrastructure Photos

“I

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would say it is innovation that pushes us to the next level, it’s the drive to keep pushing and think out of the box,” says Bob van Bebber, director at Boogertman + Partners. “Innovation can lead to market transformation, address aspects not currently within GBCSA’s Green Star manual and demonstrate leadership within the industry,” adds Annelidé Sherratt, senior sustainable building consultant at Solid Green Consulting. GBCSA’s innovation points have been designed with these goals in mind; with the vision to keep every member of a project team sitting around the table looking for boundaries to break, so that ongoing innovation creates a virtuous cycle where previous innovation becomes standard practice.

Georgina Smit, GBCSA’s Head of Technical, says that the innovation category is about rewarding innovative and creative project approaches to incorporating sustainability within buildings. It is included within the Green Star tools as a way of encouraging, recognising and rewarding the spread of innovative practices, technologies, designs and processes for building applications that impact upon environmental performance. “The category also encourages the efforts which demonstrate that sustainable development principles have been incorporated into the wider process of design, construction and performance of buildings but that are currently not captured in the standard rating tool frameworks. Its about driving market transformation,” she says. “Typically, any single initiative will only be awarded to 10 projects under the same rating tool before no longer being considered ‘innovative’ for our market and rewarded within this category. Additionally, the GBCSA has set some ‘innovation challenges’ to the market, such as the Financial Transparency Innovation Challenge, to encourage targeted green building initiatives that respond to more recent market trends in the sustainability world.” The GBCSA has also released a Covid-19 Innovation Challenge that rewards sustainable building initiatives, processes or strategies that are currently outside of the scope of the Green Star rating tools, but which have had a substantial or significant environmental benefit during the Covid-19 pandemic to minimise the spread of Covid-19 and other infectious diseases.

Here are four examples of projects that have been able to take the jump from four to five stars as a result of targeting innovation…

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INNOVATION

A new green gem for Menlyn GEMS building, Menlyn Maine

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enlyn Maine combines office, residential, retail and entertainment in what aims to be one of the first ‘green living precincts’ in South Africa. As with its other buildings, the new GEMS (Government Employees Medical Scheme) building encourages sustainability initiatives that exceed what has now become ‘green standard’ in the built environment sector. The building achieved a 5-Star As-Built Office v1.1 rating with 60 points at the end of January 2021.

Zendré Compion, sustainability consultant at Solid Green, says that the building reached its five-star status through targeting various innovation points.

One point was awarded for making use of a fire suppression gas with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of zero – an innovation that is contributing to broader market transformation in the sustainable development arena in South Africa, due to there not being a local regulation or standard for phasing out gasses with high GWP in the fire suppression

industry. Other points were awarded for being located within walking distance of more than eight amenities, sharing information on the cost of green building items, having ten individuals on the project team who have completed the accredited professional course, registering for more than one certification (Design and As-Built), and for incorporating materials that have a high recycled content. In this case, such measures include aluminium window frames, reduced cement content in the concrete, and a high percentage of recycled steel used in reinforcing the building.

Project location: Project type: Project completion date: Project size: Green Star rating:

Menlyn Maine, Pretoria Office September 2018 4 550m² 5-Star As-Built Office v1.1

The new GEMS (Government Employees Medical Scheme) building fits seamlessly into the Menlyn Maine precinct; offering premium grade offices and convenient access to public transport and local amenities.

Solid Green

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INNOVATION

Growing spaces Pareto Head Office Project location: Atrium on 5th, Sandton, Gauteng Project type: Office interior fitout Project completion date: December 2020 Project size: 1 081m² Green Star rating: 5-Star Green Star Interior v1

P

roperty investment group, Pareto Limited, is no stranger to innovation, and regularly raises the bar when it comes to its world-class shopping centres. It is highly committed to sustainability too and so it is little surprise that the interior fitout of its Sandton-based head office, located in the Atrium on 5th building, achieved its 5-Star Green Star Interior v1 certification recently using innovation to break through the 4-Star barrier and ‘go for green’ all the way. Designed to reflect Pareto’s ethos and to promote user health and wellness, its spaces are designed for restoration and relief from mental fatigue and stress – there is a meditation room, a ‘sleep pod’ where employees can take power naps during the day, on-site childcare facilities to reduce stress relating to juggling work and family, and a soothing environment created by lush provision of greenery and links to the natural world.

The project targeted an innovation point for including biophilia within the design, which encourages and recognises the inclusion of initiatives to bridge the divide between the natural and built environments.

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Pareto Limited

The calm, soothing space aims to promote restoration and encourage relief from mental fatigue and stress.

It includes a meditation room for employees to take a step back from the office environment and recharge.

The project targeted an innovation point for including biophilia within the design, which encourages and recognises the inclusion of initiatives to bridge the divide between the natural and built environments.

Biophilia supports the idea that humans have an affinity towards the natural world, with growing evidence on the emotional and psychological benefits of nature.

Meeting criteria calls for indoor design elements which reflect the natural world, as well as making use of indoor landscaping. The Pareto identity is built around ‘growing spaces’, so those arriving at the office are met with a green wall, along with a central baobab tree which abstractly forms around the office’s core and creates a canopy that extends throughout the office ceiling. The head office offers a wide variety of plant types and also makes use of natural daylight in conjunction with low-energy light bulbs and control systems. This is in addition to a wide variety of sustainability features which Makhosazana Mthethwa, sustainable building consultant at Solid Green, says have been put together in a comprehensive Occupant Users’ Guide, which informs occupants and users about the green initiatives that ensure an environmentally responsive and resource efficient interior fitout.

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INNOVATION

It’s what’s inside that counts Nedbank Lakeview Phase II Project location: Roodepoort, Gauteng Project type: Commercial Project completion date: December 2018 Project size: 13 244m² Green Star rating: 5-Star Green Star Office v1.1 As-Built, 4-Star Green Star Office v1.1 Design

The building benefits from 45% energy savings, compared to an average office building.

Solid Green

Drawing inspiration from the tranquil views over Constantia Kloof dam, the Lakeview project used water innovations (rainwater harvesting, ice storage) to jump from four to five green star.

N

edbank Lakeview Phase II Office Park in Roodepoort, Gauteng, was developed

by Abland for Nedbank, and in August 2020 received its 5-Star Green Star Office v1.1 As-Built rating. The building consists of three basement levels and four office levels, and was designed

by MWLF Architects. With office workers spending most of their day inside achieving an excellent indoor air quality was a key priority, and the HVAC system supplies a good proportion of clean outside air to the building. The building benefits from 45% energy savings, compared to an average office building. Energy and water systems are submetered, with efficient fittings in place as well as a design that reduces the consumption of potable water for the building’s fire protection and essential storage systems.

“The project originally targeted a 4-Star rating as a baseline,” explains Sherratt, with Solid Green having been the sustainability partners on the project. “Nedbank wanted to see if they could investigate taking it up to five stars, and so we worked with the team to suggest additional innovation points to make this possible.”

Sherratt says that Nedbank wanted to implement ice storage and rainwater harvesting as additional operational benefits, hoping that this would take the project to a 5-Star rating. “As innovation points are not guaranteed to be awarded, we had to draw on our previous project experience and recommended additional points to take the project up to where it needed to be.” The innovation points targeted included some of the following:

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• One point for having more than one certification (Lakeview Phase II already has a 4-Star Green Star Office V1.1 Design), which demonstrates the project’s commitment to a sustainability journey, not just one rating. Buildings then have to demonstrate a continued commitment and implementation of their green building objectives.

• Points for financial transparency. This involves completing the financial transparency criteria to assist the GBCSA with market research and to help create a broader public awareness around the actual cost of green buildings. It recognises that ‘transparency is the new green’ and rewards projects who are prepared to share data that can be used to generate broader market insights.

• Points for commitment to a educating a large part of the design and construction team on Green Star, by completing the online AP course, which facilitates increased team and industry sector development of green issues.

• One point for providing attractive and visually prominent stairs, which building tenants would want to use instead of a lift, thereby contributing to staff health and wellbeing.

“Collaborating with a client and professional team who share a common vision has allowed each professional to push for sustainable solutions within their area of expertise, resulting in what has been recognised as ‘excellence’ through this commendable 5-Star achievement,” Sherratt concludes.

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INNOVATION

The new green standard 203 Oxford, 6 and 8 Parks Boulevard, Oxford Parks Project location: Oxford Road, Dunkeld/Rosebank Project type: Offices Project completion date: January 2021 (203 Oxford), October 2021 (8 Parks Boulevard) Project size: 10 555m2 (203 Oxford), 4 312m2 (8 Parks Boulevard), 3 424m² (6 Parks Boulevard), total parking area 15 320m2 Green Star rating: 5-Star Green Star Office v1.1 Design (all buildings) Green Star - Sustainable Precincts

Infrastructure Photos

T

he Oxford Parks development situated along Oxford Road in Rosebank, Gauteng, will on completion house five buildings on an integrated basement structure. These Phase II buildings comprise 203 Oxford - Life Healthcare’s new head office; 8 Parks Boulevard – a multi-tenanted building housing Metier Private Equity and G&D Currency Technology; and 6 Parks Boulevard – an office block housing Arup, Sony Music Entertainment, Sony Publishing, among others. The buildings follow the same 5-Star strategy as the Phase I building, with minor variations based on the allocated parking and features that makes each building unique. “The client wanted a cost-effective 5-star strategy, and therefore looked at implementing several innovation points, as opposed to the costly commissioning credit targeted for Oxford Parks Phase I. This included exceeding the Green Star benchmarks of local connectivity, taking up the Financial Transparency Innovation Challenge, committing the team to educating themselves about Green Star, and implementing reused and recycled materials,” says Sherratt.

The visual impact of 6 Parks Boulevard lies in the architectural façade where a special pattern – a forestlike graphic, reinforcing the urban green theme of Oxford Parks – was printed on the glass panels. This paint technique yields thermal and anti-glare properties.

This side view of 8 Parks Boulevard shows how striking and different façades provide the buildings with both aesthetic interest and added energy benefits.

Infrastructure Photos

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POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

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INNOVATION A waste management system was put in place to boost recycling from waste generated on site – this was just one of many criteria included in the project’s comprehensive environmental management plan. Other features which are now the ‘green standard’ include the installation of heating, ventilation and airconditioning systems in all the buildings, presenting energy saving, efficiency and sustainability features including air-cooled systems that eliminate water use. Different striking façades provide the respective buildings with both aesthetic interest and added energy benefits.

The innovation category is included within the Green Star tools as a way of encouraging, recognising and rewarding the spread of innovative practices, technologies, designs and processes for building applications that impact upon environmental performance.

Infrastructure Photos

As the gateway to the world-class Oxford Parks precinct, the new Life Healthcare building stands tall presenting exceptional views and visibility onto Oxford Road. It makes for a striking impression with its flushed glazing and bold yet sensitive design.

There is a good place to start, for those looking to break through to the next level of innovation: start small and work with what you’ve got, and gradually, using the same level of effort in terms of design thinking and solutions, you’ll reach what previously seemed unattainable.

Bob van Bebber POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

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JOHANNESBURG | DURBAN | PRETORIA CAPE TOWN | DUBAI | BANGALORE

www.ckr.co.za +27 11 217 7300

SERVICES Electrical Engineering Electronic Engineering IT Infrastructure Energy Efficiency & Sustainability

Civil Engineering Services Structural Engineering Services Mechanical Engineering • • Wet Services - Plumbing & Drainage • •

Leon Fowler 083 377 - 4287 Ilze Lombard 079 902 - 3939

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INNOVATION

Green, safe and walkable Sandton Gate Phase I Project location: William Nicol Drive, Sandton Project type: Office Project completion date: October 2019 Project size: 17 660m2 Green Star rating: 5-Star Green Star Office v1.1 Design Green Star – Sustainable Precincts

The water system achieves an approximate 30% saving through water efficient fittings and submetering.

Sandton Gate is a mixed-use development in Rosebank, and one of the first certified Green Star sustainable precincts.

Solid Green

S

trategically located on William Nicol Drive, close to Sandton, Hyde Park, Rosebank and Bryanston, Sandton Gate has been ambitiously designed to be a mixed-use development that seamlessly integrates commercial, residential and retail space, with numerous amenities situated in a lowtraffic, green and walkable precinct. The Sandton Gate Phase I project was used to set the benchmark for other planned office buildings in the development to follow, and was unique in that it targeted both a Sustainable Precincts rating for the overall precinct, and a Green Star Office rating for the first office building in the project. Solid Green worked with Abland, the developer, to raise the bar to five stars, resulting in the achievement of a 5-Star Green Star Office v1.1 Design certification which is recognised as ‘South African Excellence’. Nine innovation points were targeted.

The project included several of the innovations cited in the Lakeview Phase II project, with some additional initiatives being: - Including a learning resource within an office context,

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by providing real-time monitoring that feeds energy and water consumption data to a screen in the buildings reception, so that building users can regularly monitor the building’s performance.

The sustainable building features include a number of energy-saving initiatives, from the building’s design which aims to achieve an energy consumption of approximately 209.5kWh/m² per annum (this amounts to over a 60% improvement of energy use when compared to a SANS 10400 notional building), through to occupancy sensors, submetering and the prohibition of tobacco smoke. The environmental initiatives include all selected gaseous and fire suppression systems and thermal insulants having an Ozone Depleting Potential (ODP) of zero, as well as project specific environmental management and waste management plans. The water system achieves an approximate 30% saving through water efficient fittings and submetering, and the building is designed to reduce the consumption of potable water for its fire protection and essential water storage systems.

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PROFILE

Pixabay

Locally developed,

internationally accredited The ecoASA label is a powerful tool transforming sustainable development in South Africa’s construction sector…

T

he ecoASA label, launched by its entity Agrément South Africa, fulfils a powerful part of the Green Building Policy, with ecolabelling providing accurate and honest information on the environmental aspects of products in order to encourage demand and supply of products that are less stressful on the environment. It is the first eco-label in Africa to be given Global Eco-label Network (GEN) membership, which brings enormous credibility and influence, with the GEN symbol having added weight and international validation to the ecolabels of its members for more than two decades.

Agrément SA is a competent, independent agency recognised as bringing impartial assessment to the evaluation of innovative construction products and systems in the interests of the consumer, and the construction industry at large, and it developed the ecoASA standard in alignment with best-practice international standards. Standards ensure that claims made about a product or service are accurate and not misleading; and while compliance with ecoASA by a product manufacturer is voluntary, it goes a

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long way towards establishing a reputation of trust. ecoASA-approved environmental auditors will verify whether a product conforms to the criteria set by the standard, and, after it has been certified, it may display the ecoASA eco-label, showing that it has been independently audited and demonstrates conformance with various environmental and social criteria.

HOW TO APPLY FOR AN ECO-LABEL The standards will be available for any manufacturers prior to them making a formal application for an ecoASA label, and when they are ready to have a product evaluated, they can apply through Agrément SA. There are currently two product category standards (carpets and paints) that are available for certification.

The product is evaluated by an independent assessor, against a set of criteria contained in the standard, with supporting documentation required to demonstrate conformance for each. In certain instances, on-site verification may also be required.

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123rf.com

pexels.com

PROFILE

The environmental evaluation criteria have been developed based on the whole life-cycle of the product, from cradle to cradle. The indicators have been designed to ensure minimal harm (both to the environment and people who will be affected by the product) and include the restriction of harmful or toxic substances, the restriction of emissions into the environment (including greenhouse gases, or other gaseous emissions, water emissions and solid waste), the efficient use of materials, water and energy. Energy consumption is connected to greenhouse gas emissions and the carbon footprint of the product. This is taken into account when a full life-cycle assessment (LCA) is performed. While a full LCA is an excellent indicator of the environmental impact of a product, it is onerous and costly to perform and is therefore not necessary for obtaining an ecoASA label, although it will enable the product to achieve a higher rating.

In addition to environmental criteria, a number of criteria have also been developed to ensure that the broader influence of the product or manufacturer is positive; so aspects relating to social responsibility, employment, innovation and legal standing are also included.

Once the independent assessor has evaluated the product’s level of compliance, an ecoASA label will be awarded according to the scoring system. This is valid for a period of three years, after which it will have to be renewed, with any changes to the process or composition of the product affecting the validity of the label.

the product to be awarded an ecoASA label; and to differentiate between products that excel in meeting the criteria and those that meet the minimum criteria, a scoring system has been employed. On the top end of the scale, a rating of A+ can be awarded for products that perform well across the board, while a product that demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility, despite a lack of compliance, can still achieve an eco-label. This scoring system allows for inclusivity and flexibility, and enables smaller manufacturers to compete in a market with a preference for products with an eco-label. The product rating is displayed on the product alongside the ecoASA label, in a similar fashion to the well-recognised South African Energy Efficiency Label.

The ecoASA label plays an important part in getting South Africa to achieve its global commitment to Agenda 2030, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2025 and 45% by 2030. There is an urgent need for companies, particularly those within the construction industry, to modify their behaviour, and working towards globally recognised eco-labels is an excellent platform for individual action. Why not take your first step towards official environmental compliance?

THE SCORING SYSTEM The ecoASA standard comprises two parts: part 1 contains legal compliance, social and community responsibility and environmental compliance; criteria common to all product categories, while part 2 contains criteria that are applicable specifically to the product category – fit for purpose, raw materials, manufacture, packaging and distribution, use, disposal and reuse.

Satisfying a certain number of criteria will entitle

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TRIBUTE

Leaving a

Green Legacy +Impact Magazine pays tribute to Rudolph Pienaar, Growthpoint’s late Chief Development and Investment officer, who passed away suddenly in December 2020. We celebrate his incredible contribution to South Africa’s property sector and green building movement.

WORDS Growthpoint

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R

udolph embodied the belief that by freely sharing information on a global scale about the successes and failures in green building, we can have more positive and meaningful impacts on our cities, environment and societies. He lived this ethos by generously sharing his passion and knowledge for sustainable development, becoming a pioneer of the green building movement in South Africa and driving it forward with greater pace and results.

Rudolph’s career in the commercial property industry spanned 35 years, of which 20 were with the Growthpoint Properties portfolio. He formally joined Growthpoint in 2003 when it merged with Primegro.

At Growthpoint, he served in a succession of senior and executive roles and was Chief Development and Investment officer at the time of his passing. Over his esteemed career, Rudolf held directorship positions at Barprop, Primegro, Acucap Properties, Sycom Property Fund Managers and Growthpoint. He served on both Growthpoint’s Group Committee and South African Executive Committee, the Property Committee of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, and the Advisory Board of the Department of Construction Economics at the University of Pretoria.

Right from the start, Rudolph championed many of Growthpoint’s green building achievements and was a driving force behind its energy-efficient and environmentally innovative ethos.

When reflecting on his career, the two aspects that Rudolph was most thankful for were the mentors that shaped his thinking and the phenomenal teams that he had the privilege of working with. “I regard myself as one of the most fortunate people – I live my passion every day,” he said.

Rudolph married accomplished economist Elsabe Pienaar with whom he has two children, Jean and Mareli. He loved spending time with family and friends, travelling, being in nature, or having a braai at home.

Rudolph believed “everyone who lives dies, but not everybody who dies has lived”. He would remind those around him that every person has 24 hours a day – which is a great equaliser – and that it is imperative to make the most of each hour of every day. He applied this philosophy when encouraging greener property development, management and investment.

He joined South Africa’s emerging movement for a sustainable built environment in 2008 and served as a member of the GBCSA board from 2010. He became a powerful advocate for the green building agenda within his immediate sphere of influence at Growthpoint, in the broader South African property industry as director and chair of the GBCSA, and on a global level as deputy chair and director of the World Green Building Council.

Right from the start, Rudolph championed many of Growthpoint’s green building achievements and

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TRIBUTE was a driving force behind its energy-efficient and environmentally innovative ethos. Growthpoint is a platinum founding member of GBCSA, having assisted funding the council from its initiation until it became self-sufficient. Today, Growthpoint is a platinum sponsor of GBCSA. It has built Africa’s largest portfolio of certified green buildings and became the first company to issue a green bond on the JSE. Rudolph was always quick to point out that Growthpoint’s green vision was made a reality with the backing of brilliant partners, highlighting the crucial role of collaboration for development and green building excellence. Rudolf played a pivotal role in cementing ongoing co-operation between Growthpoint and the GBCSA. Growthpoint cosponsored the GBCSA’s Energy and Water Performance (EWP) Tool and has taken part in pilot programmes for several tools and initiatives over the years. It also partners with GBCSA for the Greenovate Property and Engineering Awards, which encourages students of the built environment to find ways to live more sustainably and helps link environmental challenges to innovative thinking.

The projects and properties in which Rudolf was involved are too many to list. Among them are countless highlights involving some of the largest and most important property developments across multiple sectors of the country’s major metros.

Growthpoint received numerous awards and honours for achievements under Rudolf’s leadership, including for development excellence, green building innovation, and the outstanding financial performance of its assets.

Rudolf was a strong proponent of setting clear, measurable environmental sustainability commitments.

In 2015, Growthpoint made an ambitious commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency and green building, which coincided with Buildings Day at COP21 in Paris. In the same year, GBCSA’s 100th Green Star certification was awarded to Growthpoint’s Kirstenhof Office Park in Johannesburg.

In 2017, Sandton and Cape Town’s iconic skylines were forever altered with two of the most anticipated and ambitious property developments the country has ever seen – Discovery’s global headquarters in Sandton Central and the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

The two developments are as different from each other as they are spectacular, but both have stellar green

Rudolf approached everything with energy and was known for his humour, warmth, generosity and fierce loyalty to his team. With his immense contribution to Growthpoint and green building in South Africa and globally, it can be truly said that Rudolf made our world a better place.

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credentials and Rudolf was incredibly proud to be associated with both projects.

2020 was a seminal year for Rudolf and Growthpoint’s development team, notwithstanding the global pandemic. One of their proudest milestones was receiving Africa’s first WELL certification for advancing health and well-being in buildings, awarded by the US-based International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), for Growthpoint’s development of Exxaro’s new headquarters in Pretoria. This building also received a 6-Star Green Star As-Built rating, becoming the second development in Growthpoint’s portfolio to achieve the world-leading rating in 2020. One Discovery Place in Sandton Central, co-developed and co-owned with Zenprop, earned the same certification.

Another 2020 highlight saw the specialised surgical hospital development, by Growthpoint and Cintocare in Pretoria, become the first healthcare property on the African continent to be certified green with its 5-Star Green Star Custom Healthcare Design

I regard myself as one of the most fortunate people – I live my passion every day. Rudolph Pienaar POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

Growthpoint’s development of Exxaro’s new headquarters in Pretoria received a 6-Star Green Star As-Built rating and a WELL building certification.

certification. This project also resulted in a new green building certification tool for South Africa.

And, Growthpoint’s development of the new Bakers Transport warehousing, distribution and office facility in Cato Ridge, KwaZulu-Natal, scooped two category awards and a commendation at the Unica Steel Awards 2020 shortly before Rudolf’s passing.

As a man who was acutely cognizant of the impact that buildings have on others’ lives, and who encouraged the creation of places where businesses, people, and communities can thrive, he also touched the lives of many in the industry. Tributes flooded in at the news of his passing, including from Growthpoint’s executive team.

“Growthpoint is indebted to Rudolf for his passion, drive, dedication, and leadership, especially in the field of green building and environmental sustainability.

His passing will certainly leave a void within the larger South African property community – in which he played a significant role,” said Norbert Sasse, Group CEO of Growthpoint.

“Rudolf approached everything with energy and was known for his humour, warmth, generosity and fierce loyalty to his team. With his immense contribution to Growthpoint and green building in South Africa and globally, it can be truly said that Rudolf made our world a better place,” said Estienne de Klerk, SA CEO of Growthpoint.

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Future-Fit Home design A s featured in our last issue of +Impact Magazine, the winners of the City of Cape Town ‘My Clean Green Home’ competition, Team Mahali, have created a virtual net zero carbon home, which can be explored from your desk.

Visit the virtual home here

In partnership with the GBCSA, the My Clean Green Home design competition called for professionals and students to develop a home that demonstrates sustainable living in action.

The Mahali Hub, the winning design from Team Mahali, is an innovative, modular ‘house in a box’ covered by an overarching tree-like structure made from upcycled and locally available materials. The design for the net zero carbon home incorporates solar power generation, energy efficient appliances, passive cooling, rainwater harvesting and an edible food garden.

POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

The actual home will be on display in Greenpoint Park, Cape Town from the end of February 2021.

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INTERVIEW

NEW PARADIGMS For Ovum Corporation, it’s about the birth and genesis of nurturing ideas that help to sustain humanity. It’s about looking to nature for guidance, whilst using the latest technology to promote engineering and science. It’s about creating new paradigms that conserve our precious resources whilst using out of the box collaborative thinking.

Tell us more about the name, Ovum Corporation – what does that mean to you?

Nicholas: We really are at a critical juncture in the history of our planet from the point of view of technology, science, access to education, poverty and population growth. At the same time, we have an ever-increasing sense of political instability and food shortages, coupled with increased access to weapons of mass destruction. Somewhere, in the quagmire that humanity is currently walking, we need to be thinking about ways to move forward and do things in a more sustainable manner. Things need to be done in a more collaborative, systems approach manner, and we cannot afford to keep on thinking of ourselves in isolation to the rest of humanity and the planet in general. While certain aspects of life have indeed improved (referring to the works of Steven Pinker), we are still not doing enough to collectively conserve the basic resources of the planet.

What was the inspiration for forming the company?

Susan: There were a number of influences. We live in a country with diversity in almost everything, we have a wide variety of cultures, our landscape and even animal types are different in every province. Apart from that we have so many types of fauna and flora and so many different lifestyles. As South-Africans we feel that we have a lot to offer because we are forced to be creative on a daily basis with the challenges we face in this country.

These challenges have equipped us with an out-ofthe-box type thinking and this bigger understanding and open mindedness is what inspired us to start a company where we can share our ideas. At the same

time our country needs this type of thinking. Water scarcity and many other challenges need solutions and we believe there is so much potential to conserve our resources in a more sustainable manner. Therefore, we want to add value and bring out sustainable systems that will be of benefit to all. We were really inspired by what we saw going on in Singapore. Maybe it’s just the stunning view from the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, but there is a noticeable coherent theme in the city that pervades the architecture and thinking of the place. The development of the Green Building movement there has really taken off and we think it’s awe inspiring and in so many instances just incredibly beautiful. There is a lot that we can learn from the way they do things in Singapore. In South Africa specifically, we seem to have a tendency to build the same old buildings with the same inherent reliance on the energy grid. If one considers the backdrop to the current energy needs of our economy these buildings can be revitalized in cost-effective ways to lower energy and water demands.

Where do you see the Green Building market going right now in South Africa?

Nicholas: I think that the Green Building concept is here to stay, there is too much to lose if we don’t keep it going forward. There is a lot of new technology to implement and there is potential to research and do things differently to make South Africa more of a “green building” country. Being a water scarce country with majority coal fired power stations, the need for more sustainable solutions should be at the crux of our focus as a country and there are many ways that selfsustaining green buildings can help with this approach.

Images of inspired nature mimicking architecture in Singapore

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POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

INTERVIEW

Who does Ovum Corporation prefer to collaborate with?

Susan: We aim to collaborate with architects, scientists, educators, biologists, developers, government institutions and even artists. Anyone who is onboard with the idea behind our company!

Which industries do you see yourselves operating in?

Nicholas: As an engineering company, our focus is currently in the civil and structural market. These two fields are significantly influential in the Green Building Industry. To further broaden our opportunity base, we have also teamed up with chemical and electrical engineers to offer an industrial / environmental pollution control arm to the business.

You are passionate about vertical farming, tell us more about that and the role you see this playing in the future.

Susan: The definition of vertical farming is the practice of producing food in vertically stacked layers that are integrated into a building. The contemporary idea of vertical farming uses controlled environment agriculture (CEA) technology. CEA facilities use environmental controls (temperature, humidity, gases, etc.), fertigation, and often artificial light controls (as a supplement in the case of a rooftop greenhouse, or as a unique light source in purely indoor farming conditions).

For us, the vertical farming concept is one that needs to be more fully explored within the context of the South African market. There is a pilot plant in Pretoria, but not to the sort of scale that we would like to see. It’s the perfect synergy between two fields that we are passionate about – high rise construction and sustainable farming techniques. We are currently looking for investors into the concept. Aside from the job creation spin-offs, the added benefits are of course that the normal food transportation costs are substantially reduced since the high-rise structure is built within the urban city environment. Another key advantage is the ability to grow healthy, pesticidefree crops all year round at very high and predictable rates of yield.

What other projects do you see yourselves getting involved with in the future?

Nicholas: A long-term project is that we would like to see the vertical farming concept being brought into South Africa. We are also looking at the greening of flat roofs as well as various inner city civil infrastructure

and transportation regeneration projects. African cities are disproportionately vulnerable to the environmental shocks of flooding, erosion, drought and heat stress, and the increase in hard asphalt/concrete surfaces has given rise to increased flooding and a tendency to radiate more heat since there is often little by way of urban green space planning. The urban population is continuing to expand, with Africa’s towns and cities predicted to receive another billion inhabitants by 2050. This increased pressure has brought these cities into focus and various projects will be required to deal with the effects of an increased population – we will therefore be directing our efforts on these sorts of projects.

Are you involved in any research at the moment that aligns with your goals?

Susan: We are also busy setting up a course that focusses on the characteristics and benefits of non-standard structural materials for the design of buildings, to provide more sustainable design options for structural engineers and architects. We have also conducted research into the benefits of green roofs and walling. We have seen that the benefits are not only in relation to the thermal conditioning of the building itself, but there is also a reduction in the risk of flooding (for example). We are also researching the concept of the Green (wildlife) bridge as well as the Integral type bridge structure for various reasons.

Another avenue we are exploring is to partner with electronics engineers to set up smart device system platforms for the monitoring of building energy usage.

These devices are used to measure the efficiency at different points of a building and the data is used to improve the building’s detail design.

Why should developers and architects make use of Ovum Corporation?

Nicholas: We have only been operating for seven months now, but we already have a full order book, as well as a proven project track record in projects varying from mining to elevated viaduct expressways.

We are founded and focused on bringing intelligent fertile ideas into action. Our aim is to bring about fresh thinking to our current problems through collaboration with the right people and use of the right technologies.

We are agile, well networked and we enjoy adding value both socially and environmentally. We strive to achieve engineering excellence whilst adding the flare of sustainability to our projects. We aim to leave the world a better place.

For further information, please contact Nicholas at nicholasf@ovumcorporation.com

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CITIES

Reimagining the

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t is predicted that within the next 15 years, 12 to 14 million people will move to cities in South Africa* — an amount almost equivalent to the size of the entire population of Gauteng. Considering South African cities’ infrastructure and municipal services are already under pressure in many areas, from overcrowding and all the challenges that come with it, the question remains: how will we accommodate our new neighbours? We will need to reimagine the collective space and create sustainable precincts.

Sustainable precincts are the key to people leading healthier, more productive, and socially responsible lives, says Dean Young from Nexxagen.

WORDS Nexxagen

WHAT ARE SUSTAINABLE PRECINCTS? In the wake of climate change, health concerns and growing urban populations, it’s clear that cities and precincts can no longer be built as they were.

Sustainable precincts are a response to this, by taking the principles of green building and channelling them on a larger scale.

Sustainable precincts provide opportunities for greater connectivity, leading to greater sustainability, innovation, and economic and social outcomes. They create spaces that are integrated, use energy sources that are renewable, acquire sustainable water and food supplies, and deliver solutions to multiple complex needs for the betterment of the community and economy.

BENEFITS OF SUSTAINABLE PRECINCTS When a sustainable precinct is built according to best practices, it offers residents, workers, and other stakeholders a number of advantages.

Accessibility is at the heart of sustainable precincts, encouraging walkable spaces and alternative transportation like cycling. Thus, people walking and cycling take priority over vehicles. These precincts include shops, services, and recreational spaces to reduce the need for long commutes. These kinds of activities also promote human health.

Carbon neutrality or net zero is another focus of sustainable precincts. Instead of relying primarily on municipal electricity provision, sustainable precincts can better cope with load shedding by using alternative renewable energy sources.

Using integrated systems involving water-sensitive urban design, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling, sustainable precincts are more resilient in the face of drought.

Circular economy principles are paramount in sustainable precincts. Waste output managed on a precinct scale, is far more efficient than on an individual building scale. This creates opportunities to not only manage waste more efficiently, but to use it to generate energy for electricity or for it to be used as fertiliser in food production.

HOW SUSTAINABLE PRECINCTS ARE RATED Rating systems create credibility by ensuring that all precincts meet the same criteria and uphold a strict standard of quality. In South Africa, the GBCSA

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My Property Development Companion

Nexxagen is a choice property development firm specialising in Property Development and related services. Our objective is to develop healthier and more productive spaces for our clients and customers and to make a positive contribution to our stakeholders and the communities in which we live and work.

Nexxagen also provides GreenStar Certification Submission services, due diligence appraisals, financial modelling, cashflow projections and development proposals for all kinds of real estate including mixed-use developments, residential developments and commercial developments.

Nexxagen is available to meet existing and prospective client's property development needs and has the necessary expertise to offer superior service. Nexxagen offers a measured approach to development applying leading practice risk management techniques to assess the viability of projects.

Mobile +27 83 378 5438 Telephone +27 31 830 5171 E-mail dean@nexxagen.com 2 Ncondo Place, Ridgeside Umhlanga Ridge, Durban 4320

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CITIES in place, stimulates local and diverse employment opportunities, and reduces peak electricity demand.

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● Environment: The aim of this category is to encourage the use of bioclimatic building material, waste management, and provide for sustainable transport and movement. This category awards points if the project has best practice sustainable urban water management and integrated water cycling, minimises the environmental impacts of construction materials for the site-wide works, enhances the ecological value or biodiversity of the project site, as well as if it reduces light pollution and the heat island effect that many older developments neglected to account for. It also seeks to ensure that a greenhouse gas strategy is in place to address climate change.

rates and assesses the sustainability performance of precincts and neighbourhoods using the Sustainable Precincts tool. The tool rates the planning, design, and construction of the precinct, as opposed to that of specific buildings or their operations.

The Sustainable Precincts tool considers these key categories when rating a sustainable precinct: ● Governance: This category awards points if the project’s urban design is subject to a design review process, demonstrates corporate responsibility, engages the community, engages in environmental management, and undertakes sustainability awareness.

It also recognises projects that are resilient to the impacts of climate change and natural disasters. ● Liveability: This category encourages healthy and active living and awards points if the project implements community development projects, provides access to fresh food, has walkable access to amenities and is designed for safety. ● Economic Prosperity: This category promotes affordability, community investment, return on investment and digital infrastructure. Points are awarded if the project delivers education and skills development programmes, puts residential affordability strategies

HOW AFFORDABLE ARE SUSTAINABLE PRECINCTS? With such particular criteria, investors and developers may be under the specific impression that it can cost an exorbitant amount to create a sustainable precinct.

This is not necessarily the case at all.

The rating tool offers credit for sustainable buildings within the precinct that are certified using the Green Star tools, and recent studies by the GBCSA, the University of Pretoria, and the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors found that the average green cost premium for a 4-Star Green Star rated building has reduced from 5,2% in 2016 to 3,9% in 2019. The average green cost premium is largely dependent on the certification level, with the highest average premium of 10,2% reported for a 6-Star Green Star rating.

And while it can sometimes be slightly more expensive to construct green buildings and precincts, the financial value of the green buildings within those precincts has reportedly increased up to 18% due to higher demand, lower operating costs, and generally better buildings. Green buildings also tend to retain their property value compared to counterparts – an important factor during challenging economic times.

In a future where our city spaces are changing form and our country’s economic future is uncertain, sustainable precincts offer the surety of spaces that are not only people-centred and community-oriented, but are also built to survive and thrive.

Nexxagen aims to develop healthier and more productive spaces for people, and to make a positive contribution to the communities in which we live and work.

Nexxagen is led by Dean Young who holds a BSc in Property Development, a MSc in Property Studies and is a qualified CA(SA) with 20 years' work experience. Dean is a passionate member of the GBCSA and the South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA), as well as a certified Green Star New Building AP and Green Star Sustainable Precincts AP. www.nexxagen.com

*According to research conducted by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

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TECHNOLOGY

Liquid Innovation

Caption

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POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

Cape Town’s 2018/2019 water crisis reminded us that the distance between ‘business as usual’ and the brink of disaster, is really quite small. Over the past year, Covid-19 has also highlighted the importance of clean water for hygiene purposes. But what have we learnt from these crises, and how will we do things differently to ensure they don’t happen again? +Impact magazine explores some new water innovations intent on making waves in the building industry.

Yazeed Hothey

WORDS Melinda Hardisty

'Aquatecture' panels.

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TECHNOLOGY

AQUATECTURE: WHEN BUILDINGS CAPTURE RAIN

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he end of 2020 saw the beginning of an exciting pilot project in Cape Town, the first installation of Studio Sway’s ‘Aquatecture’ rain harvesting panels. They are designed to catch rainwater which can be channelled into buildings to form part of greywater systems or stored for later use.

This innovation is the brainchild of Netherlands-based South African designer Shaakira Jassat, founder of Studio Sway. Jassat’s studio aims to combine scientific research and aesthetic design. Realising that fresh water is a limited resource and challenged by her firsthand experience of Cape Town’s water crisis, when she attended the 2018 Design Indaba, she has been focussing her research on how to address this social and environmental issue through building technology and design. Inspired by plants and insects that catch and store rainwater or draw water from the air, she started developing prototypes for ‘Aquatecture’.

The first full-scale pilot has seen the installation of these specialised panels on the side of a parking structure at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Jassat worked with façade engineer Adam Ozinsky, to engineer the

prototypes for full scale application. Geustyn and Horak sponsored the material, manufacture and installation of the panels, which are designed to be installed as either cladding for urban structures or as free-standing elements in open spaces. In the current test installation it is manufactured from aluminium. The installation includes a weather station as well as a gutter and piping, sponsored by Longspan Gutters and AWR Smith Process Instrumentation, which channels water to an aboveground tank sponsored by Jojo. The research, done by Jassat in collaboration with UCT’s ‘Engineers Without Borders’ and facilitated by GBCSA’s Jo Anderson, will take place over the next two years. During that time weather and rainfall data will be collected, and panel efficiency and impact on the surrounding environment will be recorded. Once the data is collected, the panels can be further refined and eventually manufactured in South Africa on a larger scale.

To stay informed, sign up for updates by clicking below.

Studio Sway

The ‘Aquatecture’ pilot project at the V&A Waterfront.

Yazeed Hothey

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TECHNOLOGY

NET POSITIVE WATER BECOMES REALITY

N

et zero water use in a building – where enough water is harvested or recycled on site to cover the building’s own water requirements – used to seem like an impossible target. However, new projects

Ricardo Gomez Angel on Unsplash

Introducing planting allows water to leave the site through filtration and evaporation instead of run-off.

are targeting GBCSA’s Net Positive Water certification. GBCSA considers a site net positive when the water recycled or produced on site is greater than the water consumed. The International Living Future Institute’s Living Building Challenge takes this further and requires that all wastewater and stormwater must be treated on site, without chemicals and managed through reuse, a closed-loop system, or filtration. A water system installed on a site should also aim to match the natural cycles of that site as closely as possible – that is, the percentages of water leaving a site through filtration, evaporation, or runoff should mimic what would happen were there to be no building there at all.

Legaro Property Development’s 76 Corlett Drive, in Johannesburg, is hoping to become the highest rated Green Star building in Johannesburg and is targeting Petal Certification of the Living Building Challenge, including the Water Petal. Rainwater will be harvested and stored for potable use, then greywater and blackwater will undergo ecological treatment and be re-used for non-potable requirements. Soft landscaping and a planted façade will assist in matching nature by ensuring enough rainwater and irrigation leaves the site through evaporation and infiltration, reducing site runoff.

Legaro Property Development

WATER FROM AIR

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SOG Water Solutions

wo exciting technologies are pulling water from thin air. SOG Water Solutions, a Cape Town based start-up, has been making advances in the field of Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG). This technology is not new, but historically it has not been very effective in dry climates.

More recent advances have meant that the system can be successfully utilised much more widely, especially in

POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

the South African context. A compact machine draws air in, cools it to condense the water and collect it in a tank and then pumps out the dry air. This is proving to be a very efficient method of producing drinking water.

It can also be attached to a solar power installation, making it a completely off-grid installation.

SOG Water Solutions

AWG has the potential to be used as a plumbed-in water solution, for bottled water businesses, schools, clinics, or agricultural settings.

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info@wps.co.za 021 851 2451

TECHNOLOGY

City of Cape Town

Moisture from the air is condensed on mesh screens at the City of Cape Town's new fog harvesting pilot project on Table Mountain.

The City of Cape Town has started a fog harvesting pilot project on Table Mountain. The idea is to catch the water droplets that make up Table Mountain’s famous fog ‘table cloth’ on vertical mesh screens and allow it to trickle down into a collection chamber. The first phase pilot plant, completed in 2019, provided

preliminary data and the second phase pilot plant has just been completed. Sampling will commence for both plants from 2021. For the next two years the water quality and meteorological data from the plants will be analysed. The hope is that this may be a viable option for augmenting the city’s drinking water supply.

ARUMLOO: FLUSHING EFFICIENCY FROM NATURE

Isidima Design & Development

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POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

n 2018 the ‘Arumloo’ made headlines as a new, low-flush toilet designed

by Isidima Design & Development in Cape Town.

Since then the toilet has undergone 250 successful trials. The toilet’s ‘Vortex’ flushing design was inspired by the shape of the arum lily and enables a reliable flush using less than two litres of water, far less than most toilets on the market. Plastic versions of the ‘Arumloo’ are expected to be released by the middle of 2021, with ceramic versions to be available later in the year.

Arumloo

The Arumloo’s low-flush technology is inspired by the arum lily.

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TECHNOLOGY

HYDRALOOP DECENTRALISED WATER RECYCLING

T

he way we utilise and discard water in a modern urban environment is both wasteful and labour intensive. Centralised water treatment plants require huge amounts of infrastructure and maintenance. ‘Hydraloop’ brings greywater recycling closer to home. This decentralised water treatment system allows greywater to be collected, treated, and reused on site, allowing a household or business to recycle up to 85% of its water which reduces tap water volumes by up to 45%.

The treatment system is contained within an attractive appliance, similar in size to a freestanding fridge. It can also be installed on a larger scale with multiple units used to treat greywater for student housing or hotels. Greywater from showers, baths, and washing machines is collected and treated in the unit’s six-step process, after which it is available for reuse in the home, garden, or pool. The system is low maintenance and requires no consumables. Processes are remotely monitored, allowing easy support, proactive maintenance advice, and software updates.

WATCH VIDEO HERE

Hydraloop

‘Hydraloop’ is currently manufactured in The Netherlands but is available in South Africa through various local partners. Also watch ‘Brave Blue World’ on Netflix.

www.hydraloop.com

GUIDELINES FOR SUSTAINABLE WATER DRAINAGE

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Water Wise

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Water Wise

outh Africa’s draft guidelines for Sustainable urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) were published in 2016. Based on research

by UCT’s Urban Water Management Department, the guidelines suggest how to better deal with stormwater run-off in our cities, breaking away from the traditional canalised systems. Rand Water recently released an outline of easy steps to achieve the set goals, many of which are especially easy to include in new developments. Rainwater harvesting provides useable water while water efficient irrigation also reduces run-off, as does innovative use of planting in the example of green roofs. Permeable surfaces increase filtration rather than surface water, effectively cleaning stormwater and returning it to groundwater reserves.

Harvesting rainwater and surface run-off creates a more sustainable drainage strategy.

POSITIVE IMPACT ISSUE 10

TECHNOLOGY

WATER-WISE IRRIGATION

The Pod Project

Pods are both easy and affordable, making them a very accessible option for the home gardener, and best suited for planter boxes or small gardens.

The Pod Project

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mart irrigation systems save water by using it only when and where it’s needed.

They can automatically water different zones for different lengths of time and can test soil water contents and make adjustments accordingly. Timers allow night watering to reduce evaporation and are programmed to account for seasonal variations.

While modern technology is saving water in largescale irrigation installations, sometimes a classic approach is more accessible for small gardens.

Just as ‘slow food’ has made a comeback, The Pod Project is giving ancient irrigation techniques a new lease on life. Briony Fickling, The Pod Project’s founder, researched ancient sub-surface irrigation methods that water plants at their roots, where it’s needed, reducing water loss from surface run-off and evaporation. When nothing was locally available, she made her own. Bulbous, locally made, unglazed terracotta pots with narrow necks are buried in the soil up to the neck, filled with water and closed with a lid. The water slowly seeps through the clay into the soil as the plants need it.

Nighthawk Shoots on Unsplash

AFRICA’S LARGEST WATER TANK

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ater storage, particularly when the water needs to last through dry seasons, is especially important for remote agricultural settings. Abeco Tanks, a leader in water storage solutions, recently completed the largest water storage tank in Africa. This 5.8m litre tank, in conjunction with a 3m litre supplementary tank, supplies one of South Africa’s biggest poultry producers

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Abeco's 5.8m litres water storage tank is the largest in Africa.

with storage capacity for 8.8m litres of water. That’s roughly 3.5 Olympic swimming pools. The rectangular, sectional, bolted tank is modular, making transport and installation easy. It was installed in the record time of only 38 days (as opposed to 128) and is hygienic and safe for livestock and the processing plant.

Processing Plant

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GREEN STAR UPDATES

Ensuring Stellar Performance EBP (Existing Building Performance) rating in the time of Covid-19 With lockdown and work-from-home having affected most of 2020, many office buildings shut down during the time or experienced considerably lower occupancy. The GBCSA are continually considering the impact of Covid-19 on their products and services, and have produced a document that highlights that existing buildings are still able to achieve ratings related to this time.

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he document outlines guidance for how project teams should address the impacts of Covid-19 on projects, and provides technical guidance for the EBP rating tool. It is a working document that will be continually reviewed and updated as the situation unfolds, and contains information pertaining to:

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CREDIT TYPES FOR GREEN STAR – EXISTING BUILDING PERFORMANCE V1 Projects currently registered/registering for Green Star – EBP will have been affected by both the shortand long-term impacts of Covid-19, namely due to lower occupancy rates as well as partial or complete shutdown. As Green Star – EBP assesses the operational performance of the building during a performance period, the project has potential for an artificial improvement due to lower greenhouse gas emissions, potable water consumption and waste measurement.

The following guidance related to the credit types is aimed at ensuring that shutdowns do not have this artificial impact; although it cannot be guaranteed.

Policy & Plan Type credits The lower occupancy rates, or the shutdown of a building due to Covid-19 should have no measurable impact on the project’s ability to target Policy & Plan Type credits at initial or re-certification periods, as they relate to the processes and policies that apply to the building.

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GREEN STAR UPDATES Survey Type credits Some Survey Type credits such as transport surveys or occupant satisfaction surveys may be unable to be conducted due to their reliance on building occupants and for public health safety reasons. For this type of credit, surveys or audits, team members are advised to see the suggestions in the credits listed in the outcomes section, as well as look at ‘Covid-19 Impacts on Green Star & GBCSA Ratings_Rev2’.

Measurement & Audit Type credits The majority of these credits fall under the Indoor Environment Quality (IEQ) category, although some like MAN-3 – Maintenance Management & Tuning Testing, MAN-4 – Cleaning Audits and MAN-7: Learning Resources – Awareness Programmes require measurement and audits. Refer to the suggestions in the credits listed in the Outcomes section, as well as ‘Covid-19 Impacts on Green Star & GBCSA Ratings_ Rev2’.

Data Type credits Data Type Credits will be affected by a building having lower occupancy rates or having been shut down, with the impact for greenhouse gas emissions, potable water and operational waste credits being affected. For this credit type, see the suggestions in the credits listed in the Outcomes section, as well as ‘Covid-19 Impacts on Green Star & GBCSA Ratings_Rev2’.

COVID-19 Impacts on Green Star & GBCSA Ratings –April 2020

Building Type credits Building Type credits at initial or re-certification periods rely on the physical attributes of the building and as such, the lower occupancy rates, or the shutdown of a building due to Covid-19 should have no measurable impact on the project’s ability to target this credit type.

EBP COVID-19 ELIGIBILITY RULING Projects that wish to adapt any of the standard Existing Building Performance v1 criteria need to be put through an EBP Covid-19 Eligibility Ruling, which the GBCSA will need to approve. This needs to be requested via Zendesk CLICK HERE , with the subject line ‘EBP Covid-19 Eligibility’ before submitting Round 1, and should detail the proposed adjustments, including: • Clarification on performance periods being used for the project • Explanation of building’s occupancy during the time proposed to be rated • Clarification of the building’s performance period and energy and water performance period • Detailing of any major changes in percentage of occupied space between the periods above • Description of the project team’s approach to surveys throughout the project submission For those who feel like they are being negatively impacted by the current situation, or the directions outlined in the document, and need help in this regard, please contact GBCSA Technical Manager, Jenni Lombard jenni.lombard@gbcsa.org.za.

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OUTCOMES Eligibility criterion relating to the building characteristics (occupied at minimum 70% occupancy throughout the performance period) and the timing of the certification need to be taken into consideration.

ENE-1 & WAT-1: Due to Covid-19 conditions, the GBCSA is permitting project teams to submit normalised data by removing data that was affected between 15 March 2020 and when building occupants were allowed to return to work/the National State of Disaster lifted; and replace it with data from the same period in 2019.

MAN-4: Green Cleaning Performance [3.5pts] This includes the development of a green cleaning policy with an addendum for cleaning during Covid-19 response time. Points are awarded for the purchase of green cleaning consumables; but various stipulations are outlined in the document which consider circumstances where chemicals that did not meet MAN-4 compliance were used during 2020. Resources and a list of antimicrobial ingredients approved by the EPA’s Design for the Environment Programme is given.

IEQ-1: Indoor Air Quality (occupancy orientated) [5pts] Carbon monoxide (CO) levels and carbon dioxide (CO2) levels are entirely dependent on occupancy, and so these audits would need to have taken place after the building returned to ‘new normal’ occupancy (i.e. after National State of Disaster lifted). If the required occupancy was not obtained, the points cannot be targeted.

IEQ-2: Lighting Comfort All points are still able to be targeted as they are.

IEQ-3: Thermal Comfort These temperature measurements can only be taken with the relevant occupancy.

The surveys can be done according to the technical manual, or two alternative options are outlined in the document.

IEQ-4: Occupant Comfort Survey The surveys can be done according to the Technical Manual, or two alternative options are outlined in the document.

IEQ-5: Acoustic Quality These points can still be targeted, as a qualified reviewer will know what to look for.

IEQ-6: Daylight and Views All points still able to be targeted as they are.

TRA-1: Alternative Transportation The surveys can be done according to the Technical Manual, or two alternative options are outlined in the document.

MAT-2: Solid Waste Management The waste to landfill diversion remains applicable as this is a percentage figure, and the reduction of total waste volume (by at least 10%) for an applicable point is only applicable if waste data is extrapolated for periods of reduced occupancy.

DOWNLOAD THE DOCUMENT HERE

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PROFILE

Medium of

Light O

ur resources in the field of research and development make it possible to develop innovative LED luminaires so that we are one step ahead of our competitors. Thanks to the efficiency in our organization and extraordinary in-house vertical integration in manufacturing, we are able to create customised solutions and individual products that meet the particular needs of our customers.

CONCEPT AND DESIGN We provide tailored lighting design solutions, from bespoke luminaires to lighting layouts for commercial, industrial and retail spaces.

We offer designs and consult with professionals so as to ensure that we meet all the requirements of our client’s as well as meeting the regulations as per the occupational health and safety act. Together with this, we design to ensure that our client’s concepts are brought forward with our expertise in the lighting industry from manufacturing to project facilitating.

With the use of the software such as Dialux EVO, AutoCAD and others, we can showcase our lighting concepts, designs, layouts and renders to illustrate the space of the project.

CONTROL Our Smart-Light Solutions are not a “one size fits all solution”. We design and offer a smart light control solution according to the requirements of the project and space and customise it accordingly. This will ensure the best results at the most cost effect price.

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We are passionate about the fascinating medium of light and its properties.

Lightnet, established in 1991, has focused on the medium in all its diversity, on its optimum adaptation to user requirements.

The results are our aesthetic and functional lighting solutions, can be perfectly integrated into all kinds of commercial, industrial and retail applications.

Features include: • Smart-Light Harvesting: automatic dimming feature to reduce energy consumption when daylight presents sufficient light in a space.

• S mart-Light Occupancy Control: feature that understands the space and will switch “on” if occupancy is detected.

• S mart-Light Time Switching Control: the control of dimming with unoccupied space or switching off over a predetermined time.

TEST AND TRIALS Our in-house facilities allow for continuous research and development to ensure electrical conformance and performance of our luminaires. We are constantly testing the latest technologies and incorporate these into our services with the backing of our technology partners and suppliers.

COMMISSIONING AND SUPPORT We offer turnkey solutions for lighting and controls.

This may include energy audits, designs and renders, bespoke luminaire solutions, manufacture, supply, installation and commissioning whilst we manage the project.

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CASE STUDIES: GREEN BUILDING SERVICES, MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES

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hermguard has manufactured cellulose fibre insulation since 1984, meaning they have 37 years of valuable industry experience. “We introduced the product to South Africa in 1984 when consumers were not as environmentally conscious as they are today,” explains MD Eric Quarmby, adding that the company gained market share through retrofitting houses and the public’s realisation that Thermguard performs exceptionally well. The ensuing “green” revolution saw more and more architects specify the product in major projects.

RESPONSIBLE MANUFACTURE Thermguard is manufactured from recycled newsprint.

Harmless household chemicals are added to ensure the product is fire-retardant as well as insect and rodent repellant. The company uses a specialised low-density mill from the USA which allows them to mill the recycled newsprint to lower density than its competitors. This ensures that more air is trapped between the fibres, thereby providing a lighter, fluffier product capable of superior insulation values.

INSTALLATION Until recently, Thermguard insulation could only be installed by an approved distributor using a specialised blowing machine. Thermguard now offers a locally made DIY installation machine that can be rented for smaller

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projects or purchased for use on large projects. This DIY option is available from the factory in Kempton Park and is currently limited to the Gauteng area.

Installation of Thermguard is simple and fast – an average-size installation takes only two to three hours.

The installation machine and bags of insulation remain outside the house while a hose is taken into the roof space. The insulation is then blown through the hose and onto the ceiling.

An important point to note is that because Thermguard is a loose-fill insulation, it fills every nook and cranny, leaving no gaps where heat gains or losses can occur thus providing 100% coverage.

CASE STUDY THERMGUARD

DIY GREEN INSULATION FOR YOUR HOME

AT A GLANCE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION There are numerous benefits to specifying Thermguard insulation: • Member of GBCSA & TIPSASA • Manufactured under ISO 9001:2015 accreditation • Carries the SABS mark of approval • Fire tested under SANS 428 (rated B/B1/2) • DIY installation option is now available in Gauteng Insist on using Thermguard insulation in your home and future projects!

THERMGUARD 011 018 7800

www.thermguard.co.za

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CASE STUDY WATER PURIFICATION SOLUTIONS

BOREHOLE WATER TREATMENT FOR SUSTAINABLE FARMING De Grendel Wine Estate, a leading wine farm in Cape Town, has blueberry orchards on its estate in addition to its vineyards. These orchards require a sustainable supply of high-quality water for irrigation purposes. To this end, Water Purification Solutions (WPS) designed a complete water treatment system to purify borehole water to make it suitable for irrigation and other applications. The source of the water to be treated was an existing borehole on the estate.

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enerally, the challenges associated with groundwater from boreholes in the Cape comprise hardness and excess quantities of minerals such as chloride, sodium and metals. In this case, the borehole water that required treatment had excess iron and manganese as well as elevated levels of sodium chloride. All of these factors contributed to the water quality not conforming to the high standard of water that the client required.

As a result, the client could not use the groundwater from the borehole for irrigation or potable applications.

Instead, they had to make use municipal water for most of their applications. This was a significant expense that was not sustainable for their business in the long run.

The water from the borehole was intended for multiple points of use. Besides blueberry orchard irrigation, other potable uses for the water is the wine cellar, the restaurant, the dairy, and staff housing.

WPS’s team designed and manufactured a turnkey water treatment system that purifies the water in four stages in order to ensure that the water meets all the quality standards associated with the abovementioned points of use. These stages are: 1. Pre-treatment 2. Filtration 3. Reverse osmosis 4. pH adjustment and disinfection

PRE-TREATMENT The pre-treatment stage consists of a combination of pH adjustment and oxidation in order to remove excess metals from the water.

FILTRATION The filters used in the filtration stage are a media filter containing DMI-65 and granular activated carbon along with a bag filter.

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REVERSE OSMOSIS The third stage of treatment consists of acidification follow by reverse osmosis. A total of three reverse osmosis vessels were added to the system. Reverse osmosis was implemented to reduce the salinity in the water.

PH ADJUSTMENT AND DISINFECTION Another round of pH adjustment was necessary to raise the pH level above 7, as the client specified that this level of pH is necessary in water used to irrigate blueberries.

WPS sources all the components and equipment that they use in their manufacturing processes from reputable suppliers in the water treatment industry.

The water treatment system delivered a total of 350 000 ℓ/day. This satisfied the client’s water requirements and ensured that they could operate optimally. The primary use of the treated water is the irrigation of their blueberry orchard. The remainder of the water is stored in a reservoir and used on demand.

After they installed the water treatment system on site, WPS scheduled regular maintenance visits to De Grendel. By doing regular maintenance, WPS can ensure that the water treatment system is functioning optimally. Their maintenance service includes cleaning, refilling chemicals and consumables, etc.

If you are ever in need of a tailored water treatment solution for borehole water, WPS is available to provide expert assistance anywhere in southern Africa. Contact us anytime to discuss your water-related challenges.

We would be honoured to help in any way they can!

WPS info@wps.co.za 021 851 2451 www.wps.co.za

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Green Building Council South Africa is leading the way in respect to sustainability in the property and construction industry.

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