The Thailand Green Building Movement is transforming the country’s construction industry. With a focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly practices, the movement is gaining momentum, supported by government policies and corporate initiatives. This article explores the rapid growth of Thailand Green Building Movement, their financial benefits, and the policies driving this change. Let’s take a look!
Thailand Green Building Movement: The Rapid Growth of Green Buildings
Thailand has seen a remarkable increase in the number of green buildings. Since 2007, the industry has grown at an average annual rate of 54%. In 2007, there were only six green-certified buildings, but by 2015, this number had surged to 243, and by 2016, it had reached 294.
Commercial buildings dominate this market, accounting for 40% of green-certified properties, followed by retail and other types of structures. This rapid expansion reflects the growing recognition of the benefits of sustainable construction, both economically and environmentally.
Financial Benefits of Green Buildings
Green-certified buildings are not only environmentally friendly but also financially rewarding. They yield rents that are 20-25% higher than traditional buildings, making them attractive to developers and investors. Operating costs are significantly reduced as well, with energy and water expenses cut by as much as 30%.
The financial advantages extend further. Green buildings have a 50% higher Net Present Value compared to traditional office spaces and achieve payback 10% faster. These figures highlight why green buildings are becoming a preferred choice for developers looking to maximize returns while promoting sustainability.
Corporate and Government Commitments
Corporate Thailand is playing a key role in advancing green building practices. Thirty-four companies have joined the Science-Based Targets Initiative, committing to measurable sustainability goals. This corporate backing is crucial for driving widespread adoption of green construction practices.
Government support is another critical factor. Thailand’s 1992 Energy Conservation Promotion Act laid the foundation for sustainability initiatives in the construction industry. The government has set ambitious targets, including reducing energy intensity by 30% by 2036 compared to 2010 levels.
Thailand Green Building Movement: Renovating for Sustainability
Older buildings are also being transformed to align with green standards. In Bangkok, 15 buildings over 15 years old have achieved green certifications following major renovations. These efforts demonstrate that sustainability is not limited to new construction but can also extend to existing infrastructure, reducing environmental impact while improving efficiency.
Policies Driving Thailand Green Building Movement
The government’s energy efficiency plans are central to the Thailand Green Building Movement. Policies like the Energy Conservation Promotion Act and other legislative measures encourage eco-friendly practices across the construction sector. These initiatives ensure that sustainability remains a priority for developers, architects, and policymakers.
The Future of Thailand Green Building Movement
The future looks bright for Thailand’s green building industry. With continued corporate and government support, the movement is expected to expand further, delivering significant environmental and financial benefits. The combination of higher rental yields, lower operating costs, and energy savings makes green buildings a smart investment for a sustainable future.
The Thailand Green Building Movement showcases how sustainability and economic growth can go hand in hand. Rapid expansion, financial benefits, and strong policy support are driving the transformation of Thailand’s construction industry. As the movement grows, it offers a model for other countries aiming to integrate sustainability into their development plans.
