The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the regional network of the World Green Building Council (WGBC) to support sustainable property development through energy and resource efficiency, as well as reducing carbon emissions.
This MoU provides a framework for cooperation to drive sustainable building practices in countries where both are active.
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These include promoting best industry standards and practices to achieve energy and resource efficiency, climate resilience and building sustainability, as well as promoting innovative zero-waste design, green urban planning and low carbon emissions.
EBRD director for property and tourism Claudia Pendred said: "We are very pleased to join forces with the World Green Building Council as we share the same vision and goals for energy and resource efficiency. The EBRD is keen to provide funds for investments in this area and aims to increase our green financing to around 40% of total annual investments by 2020."
WorldGBC regional director for Europe James Drinkwater said: "The EBRD has been a key driving force within the European investment community, driving up local standards on energy and environmental performance in buildings. We look forward to working together to promote green building certification, support policy dialogue and engage the wider investment community."
To turn the MoU into firm steps, the two parties agreed to have a work programme for this year. As part of it, Croatia will be the first country selected, where they will work in partnership with the Croatia Green Building Council.
A global network of green building councils (GBCs), with 25 GBCs, six regional partners and over 5,000 members in Europe, WGBC intends to make buildings and communities sustainable through leadership and market transformation.
The EBRD supports development of the private sector in more than 30 countries in three continents.
Image: The MoU provides a framework for cooperation to drive sustainable building practices. Photo: courtesy of European Bank of Reconstruction and Development.
