Creating Green Neighbors & Neighborhoods


Text : Matthias Gelber

In the effort to create a better and greener domain for all, our country’s singular green benchmarking body the Green Building Index (GBI) has come up with the new Township Tool to further widen the green transformation scope. With this, GBI aims to march the green movement into our neighborhoods and communities.

Six core categories for the delivery of Sustainable Townships in Malaysia

  1. Climate, Energy and Water
    Balanced in the production and consumption of water
    Aim for zero net carbon emissions by maximizing passive design principles, minimizing the impact of heat island effect, minimizing energy consumption, adopting onsite energy generation, utilizing renewable energy technologies such as co-generation and micro-generation. Water neutral through the reduction of mains water consumption, rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling.
  2. Ecology and Environment
    Respect surrounding environment and native ecological systems
    Sensitive to the needs of the local ecology and biodiversity, aiming to preserve and enhance the ecological value of the natural environment. Assist in stabilizing land – subsidence by reducing the impact of flooding and erosion.
  3. 3. Community Planning and Design
    Planned and designed for the benefit of the community
    Created using an integrated approach to master planning and practice urban design principles emphasizing people priority and green spaces. Such goals help create a strong sense of place for communities, resulting in more livable and diverse neighborhoods.
  4. Transportation and Connectivity
    Well-connected and have a broad range of transportation options
    Excellent accessibility, connectivity and are well linked to surrounding districts. Make good use of existing transport links and make priority and provision for future services such as rail, bus and cycling networks.
  5. Building and Resources
    Lower impact on resources by applying the ‘more from less’ principle
    Emphasize the need to minimize the use of highly resource intensive materials by using a life cycle approach. Make effective use of local materials and resources for the construction of new communities.
  6. Business and Innovation
    Tailored to respond to local needs in creating business and employment whilst incorporating innovative solutions
    Provide employment opportunities for its residents to work closer to their homes and schools. They provide avenues for businesses to form and flourish. Demonstrate best practices through the implementation of innovative technologies and solutions at many different levels of the township.

GBI Township Tool Points Allocation Chart