Azerbaijan’s successful policies have facilitated partnerships
with several leading global organizations, including the
International Finance Corporation (IFC). The relationship with the
IFC is expanding across key areas, notably in the development of
small and medium-sized enterprises and public-private sector
partnerships.
The IFC is actively engaged in projects aimed at enhancing
energy efficiency, establishing “green” energy zones, and advancing
waste management initiatives. These efforts align with Azerbaijan’s
strategic development goals and have the potential to significantly
contribute to regional development.
Recently, the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Mukhtar
Babayev, who has been designated as President of COP29, met with
Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance
Corporation. During their discussion, they addressed the critical
issue of climate change, which remains a priority for Azerbaijan.
The dialogue focused on innovative financing solutions for climate
action, as well as strategies to enhance support for developing
countries and mobilize private sector investments to achieve
sustainable development goals in preparation for COP29.
It is noteworthy that Azerbaijan is currently working to expand
its cooperation with the IFC in the realm of green construction.
This initiative emphasizes the promotion of environmentally
friendly building materials and the development of low-carbon
buildings.
What makes the “green buildings” initiative so
crucial for our environment and communities?
Green buildings are essential for several reasons, particularly
in the context of sustainability, environmental health, and
economic efficiency. Here are some key points on their importance
and why governments are increasingly investing in this type of
infrastructure:
1. Environmental benefits
– Reduced carbon footprint: Green buildings are designed to
minimize energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
They often utilize renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind,
which contribute to a lower overall carbon footprint.
– Resource conservation: These buildings promote the efficient
use of water and materials. Techniques such as rainwater
harvesting, greywater recycling, and sustainable materials sourcing
help conserve precious resources.
2. Health and well-being
– Improved indoor air quality: Green buildings typically use
non-toxic materials and have better ventilation systems, resulting
in healthier indoor environments. This can reduce respiratory
issues and other health problems among occupants.
– Enhanced comfort: Features such as natural lighting and
temperature control contribute to occupant comfort, which can boost
productivity and overall quality of life.
3. Economic advantages
– Lower operating costs: While the initial investment in green
building technologies may be higher, the long-term savings on
energy and water bills can be significant. These buildings often
have lower maintenance costs due to the use of durable materials
and efficient systems.
– Increased property value: Properties that adhere to green
building standards are often more attractive to buyers and tenants,
leading to higher market values and rental rates.
4. Government initiatives and policies
– Sustainability goals: Many governments have set ambitious
sustainability goals to combat climate change and promote energy
efficiency. Investing in green buildings is a tangible way to
achieve these objectives.
– Job creation:The green building sector creates jobs in
construction, engineering, and maintenance, contributing to local
economies and fostering innovation in sustainable technologies.
– Regulatory incentives: Governments often provide incentives
such as tax breaks, grants, or expedited permitting processes for
developers who adhere to green building standards. This encourages
more stakeholders to pursue sustainable practices.
5. Public awareness and education
– Promoting a culture of sustainability: By prioritizing green
buildings, governments can raise awareness about environmental
issues and encourage citizens to adopt more sustainable
lifestyles.
Green buildings play a critical role in fostering a sustainable
future by addressing environmental challenges, improving public
health, and driving economic growth. Governments recognize these
benefits and are motivated to promote green infrastructure through
policies and initiatives that support sustainable development.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) launches
innovative “Green Building” project in Azerbaijan to promote
sustainable development
To support these initiatives, the International Finance
Corporation (IFC) is implementing its “green building” project in
Azerbaijan, following its success in 96 countries. During her
address at the “Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Microfinance”
conference held in Baku, Leyla Huseynli, a sustainable finance
specialist at the IFC, announced that a roadmap for the development
of green buildings in Azerbaijan is anticipated to be presented at
the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN
Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29).
Huseynli highlighted plans to establish a new regulatory
framework for the green building sector in the near future. This
initiative will involve preparing a roadmap for the development of
green buildings, in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding
signed with the State Architecture and Urban Planning
Committee.
She also emphasized the IFC’s close collaboration with the
Central Bank of Azerbaijan across various initiatives. “Climate
change is not a distant concern; we are already experiencing its
impacts. The events anticipated over the next 50 years will be five
times more severe, with expected damages increasing by 77%,” she
stated.
Furthermore, Huseynli noted that in 2023, the IFC’s total
investment portfolio amounts to $43 billion, with $14 billion
already allocated to sustainable and green finance. “In return, we
have successfully attracted $15 billion for projects directly
related to sustainability and climate initiatives,” she added.
In conclusion, Azerbaijan’s proactive approach to sustainability
is exemplified through its collaboration with the International
Finance Corporation (IFC) and the advancement of green building
initiatives. These efforts not only align with global climate
action goals but also enhance regional development by promoting
environmental health, economic efficiency, and public
well-being.
The ongoing discussions between Azerbaijani officials and the
IFC underscore the urgent need for innovative financing solutions
and regulatory frameworks that support green construction. As
Azerbaijan prepares to present its roadmap for green buildings at
COP29, it is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable
development.
—
Nazrin Abdul is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on
Twitter: Nazrin
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