By Prossy Kisakye
The Aga Khan University (AKU) Centre in Nairobi has achieved the Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) Advanced certification for its multiple sustainability features.
The University Centre stands as a model for sustainable high-rise development while providing a human-centric experience for its users
The university President Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin says the certification was made possible through verification by independent EDGE auditors, Sintali.
He explains that the EDGE Advanced requires that at least 40 percent energy is saved in the building operation in contrast to an average new construction in the respective area, and at least 20 percent savings in both water and embodied energy in materials.
During the day, heat is absorbed by concrete, and at night, when the temperature drops, the concrete cools, allowing it to serve as a heat sink again the next day.
From inception, the University Centre has considered sustainability aspects while designing with the user in mind and making the most of the very small site of less than two acres.
The porosity of the building allows the prevailing breezes to ventilate the interior and exterior spaces, reducing energy consumption air conditioning.
The Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) Advanced certificate exemplifies achievement in energy savings, water savings, and less embodied energy in construction materials.
EDGE, Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies, is the International Finance Corporation’s innovation to mainstream green buildings and thus help fight climate change.
