Pakistan's energy sector is currently heavily dependent on fossil fuels, particularly coal and imported liquefied natural gas (LNG), which contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Although renewable energy sources such as solar and wind have seen significant growth in recent years, they still make up a relatively small part of the country's energy mix. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), fossil fuels accounted for about 80% of Pakistan's electricity generation in 2022, underscoring the urgent need for a transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
Earlier this month, the Center for Peace and Development Initiatives hosted a cohort round as part of its Green Zameen Fellowship program. This meeting brought together distinguished legislators, industry experts and other stakeholders to discuss important topics such as energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable architecture. Dr. Fiaz Chaudhry, the esteemed Chairman of the National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC), graced the roundtable participants with his insightful keynote address. As founding director of the LUMS Energy Institute and holder of the renowned Siemens Verner Von Chair, Dr. Chaudhry's expertise in the energy sector is unparalleled. His talk provided a comprehensive overview of Pakistan's energy landscape and highlighted the critical role of transmission infrastructure in ensuring reliable and sustainable electricity supply. A key takeaway from the event was the urgent need to redesign our built environment – from homes to major infrastructure – to address climate change and energy security.
Buildings are not just structures; They contribute significantly to our carbon footprint. The construction industry is a large consumer of resources and a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. However, a new wave of architects are embracing sustainable design principles and placing emphasis on energy efficiency, resource conservation and minimizing environmental impact. This is a holistic approach that takes into account the entire life cycle of a building, from material procurement and construction to operation and eventual dismantling.
Minimizing energy consumption is of utmost importance. Sustainable architecture emphasizes strategies such as passive solar design, where buildings are designed to maximize sunlight in winter and minimize it in summer. Efficient insulation and high-performance glazing further reduce energy loss. Water conservation is also critical, as rainwater harvesting systems, low-flow fixtures, and drought-tolerant landscaping are standard features.
The careful selection of building materials is another cornerstone of sustainable design. By favoring locally sourced, recycled and renewable materials such as bamboo, rammed earth and wood from sustainably managed forests, the environmental impact of transportation is reduced and the use of non-renewable resources is minimized.
In addition, sustainable architecture focuses on improving the indoor climate quality. This includes ensuring good air quality, maximizing natural lighting and providing access to green spaces, all of which contribute to the health and wellbeing of building occupants.
To accelerate the adoption of sustainable architecture and renewable energy, the government must play a crucial role. Streamlining building codes to promote energy efficiency and sustainable building practices is critical
Another crucial aspect of sustainability is the introduction of the circular economy. By prioritizing the use of recycled and renewable materials, enabling easy dismantling, and maximizing the reuse and recycling of building components, we can minimize waste and reduce the environmental impact associated with construction and demolition. This approach fits seamlessly into green energy principles by reducing the need for energy-intensive materials and promoting a more sustainable and resource-efficient built environment.
The IAPEX 2024 competition, hosted by the Institute of Architects Pakistan in January this year, provided a valuable insight into the future of sustainable architecture in the country. With a focus on “sustainable future,” it asked the architects to design an eco-friendly entrance pavilion for the Pak China Friendship Center as there is none there. This competition served as a platform to showcase innovative and sustainable design solutions and pushed the boundaries of architectural creativity.
Of the more than 50 entries from across the country, 40 were shortlisted as finalists. In particular, the “Eco Cube Pavilion” by NZ Architects attracted a lot of attention from the jury. Even though it ultimately failed to win a top spot due to certain factors, this innovative concept remained a highlight of the competition and demonstrated the potential of sustainable and circular design principles. Using reused wood, leftover building materials and recycled tires, this innovative design embodied the principles of circular economy – transforming discarded materials into functional and aesthetically pleasing structures. The Eco Cube Pavilion demonstrated that creativity and sustainability can go hand in hand by transforming discarded materials into functional and aesthetically pleasing structures.
With its abundant solar and wind resources, Pakistan has the potential to become a leader in renewable energy. Integrating renewable energy sources into building designs can significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels, reduce energy costs and minimize environmental impact. Solar panels can be integrated into building facades, roofs or even as shading devices. They can generate electricity to power lighting, appliances, and even heating and cooling systems.
For buildings in windy locations, small wind turbines can be integrated into the design to harness wind energy. In areas with suitable geothermal resources, ground source heat pumps can be used for heating and cooling. Green roofs and vertical gardens not only improve the aesthetics of buildings, but also provide insulation, reduce stormwater runoff and improve air quality.
To accelerate the adoption of sustainable architecture and renewable energy, the government must play a crucial role. Streamlining building codes to promote energy efficiency and sustainable building practices is critical. This includes incorporating performance-based standards that encourage innovation and the use of sustainable materials.
The future of sustainable building lies in collaboration. Architects, engineers, policymakers and the public must work together to develop and implement practical solutions
Introducing attractive financial incentives such as tax breaks, subsidies and net metering policies can encourage building owners to invest in renewable energy technologies. Government support for research and development in sustainable building technologies such as advanced building materials, innovative energy systems and green building technologies is critical to long-term success.
Investing in education and training programs for architects, engineers and construction workers to improve their knowledge and skills in sustainable building practices is also crucial. Equally important is raising public awareness of the importance of sustainable architecture and the benefits of renewable energy through public campaigns and educational programs.
The Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB), now merged with the Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB), has taken steps to promote renewable energy, such as introducing feed-in tariffs and supporting renewable energy projects. However, more needs to be done to create an enabling environment for sustainable development.
The future of sustainable building lies in collaboration. Architects, engineers, policymakers and the public must work together to develop and implement practical solutions. By fostering a culture of innovation, investment and collaboration, we can build a greener, more resilient and prosperous Pakistan for generations to come.
This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the government, the private sector and the public, to work together towards a common goal. By adopting sustainable architecture and harnessing the power of renewable energy, Pakistan can pave the way for a greener, more resilient and more prosperous future.