The South African government is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through a combination of mechanisms, including:

• energy efficiency
• renewable energy
• clean energy and 
• tax on CO2.

The role of buildings in reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions is addressed in several reports by UNEP-SBCI, in which it is noted that the barriers to energy efficient buildings will not be removed unless governments take action.

It is incumbent therefore on the building sector in South Africa to also respond to the need for energy efficiency and for reducing greenhouse gas emissions – and specifically for government to lead by example. This can be achieved through certification of buildings to Green Star SA standards by the Green Building Council of South Africa, and these documents set out the minimum requirements and guidelines for certification.