'Less than 1% of Malaysian building stocks are currently green certified – unlike Singapore and London which are approaching 40% to 60% – despite having certification standards around for more than 10 years.

The biggest hurdle has been the impression that green buildings are expensive, which is something that GreenRe is trying to dispel.

“If you apply the principles in our certification standards, especially the passive design principle, it can lower the construction cost,” said Ashwin, adding that it is about getting the architects and developers to orient the building in the right way and reducing the number of windows.

In tropical countries, heat gain is usually derived through the windows. Ashwin suggested having lesser air-conditioning spaces and incorporating more natural ventilation. He said investors should not only consider the current cost but the life-cycle savings as well.

“Environmentally conscious property buyers and users are emerging. The demand for green buildings in Malaysia will continue to rise,” he said, pointing out that in 10 to 15 years young people will demand green buildings as a minimum requirement.

According to Ashwin, there has been an increase in registration for GreenRE certification. Encouragingly, professionals such as architects and mechanical-electrical engineers are also inquiring about it. He believes there is a shift in the right direction, albeit a slow one.

“People are beginning to appreciate the cost savings in running a green building. We are getting more response from members of the public,” he said, adding that GreenRE has developed a user guide for converting abodes into green homes.'