EGYPT'S NEW GOLD IS GREEN

BUILDING THE FUTURE'S SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS TODAY

Egyptians have always revered the natural world, from the countless murals depicting flora and fauna on tombs and temples to the constant observance of the Nile. Our ancestors understood the delicate and intertwined balance between themselves and their environment, and respected and protected it. While the industrial age introduced advanced manufacturing and abundance previously unknown to humanity, it also took a huge toll on the land, air and water. Today, governments and individuals are trying to reverse the damage and find ways to thrive without hurting the planet.

Egypt is doing so by rapidly positioning itself as a regional leader in green investment, leveraging its abundant natural resources and strategic location. With a focus on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, eco-conscious real estate, and sustainable education facilities, the nation is aligning its economic growth with environmental stewardship.

EGYPT’S GREEN COMEBACK

Central to Egypt's green transformation is the Egypt Vision 2030, a national agenda launched in 2016 to achieve sustainable development across various sectors. This strategy emphasizes environmental sustainability, aiming to integrate green practices into the country's economic and social frameworks. Complementing this vision is the National Climate Change Strategy 2050, which outlines Egypt's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing climate resilience. These policies are supported by international collaborations, including agreements with the European Union to bolster green initiatives.

We’re seeing an increasing number of Egypt’s new developments achieving LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, Egypt now ranks among the top countries in the Middle East for LEED-certified buildings, with a growing number of projects achieving Gold and Platinum ratings.

In addition to LEED, developers in Egypt can pursue: the Green Pyramid Rating System (GPRS), and the TARSHEED rating system. GPRS is modeled on LEED, while TARSHEED was specifically developed to align more closely with Egypt’s cultural and environmental context.

PROJECTS THAT ARE LEADING THE WAY

The diversity of projects reflects the shift toward sustainable construction, aligning with Egypt’s green objectives and boosting its appeal to eco-conscious investors and international partners.

The New Administrative Capital is one of country’s hotspots for green construction. The upcoming Forbes International Tower is set to be the world's first hydrogen-powered skyscraper, setting a benchmark for green architecture. No matter how large or tall the buildings are, they can be sustainable, as seen in Nile Business City, one of the tallest commercial projects in Africa and the Iconic Tower which is even taller, standing at 385 meters tall and Africa’s tallest building. The structures incorporate eco-friendly construction methods, energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and smart building management solutions. Not only are these developments being built in environmentally conscious ways, but they’re also set to operate that way too.

Shopping centers and malls are reaping the benefits of greener construction too. The Cairo Festival City Expansion integrates sustainable design, including energy-efficient buildings, green landscaping, and innovative water recycling systems, aiming for long-term LEED certification across its new developments.

Even academic institutions are designing for the future. The AUC Faculty Housing Building is the first university housing project in the Middle East and North Africa to achieve LEED Gold Certification. It showcases sustainable architecture within an academic context.

Egypt’s tourism industry is vital to the economy, so it’s very heartening to see touristic enterprises embracing green development too. The Ras El-Hekma Development project on Egypt's North Coast is a $150 billion initiative backed by ADQ Holding, incorporating sustainable urban planning and smart infrastructure. The area’s main attraction is the pristine azure beaches and protecting them by making sure the ecology is not harmed is imperative.

We’re also seeing an increased interest in restoring and preserving heritage and historical areas in the heart of Cairo. The Fustat Park Redevelopment project that is expanding the park from 40 to nearly 200 acres is transforming urban green space and improving city life.  In a similar effort to improve urban neighborhoods and make them greener, is the Downtown Cairo Revitalization that blends historic preservation with modern sustainable urban living.

The transition to a green economy is generating employment opportunities in the renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and green construction sectors , contributing not only to sustainability but to GDP growth and energy security.

NAVIGATING CHALLENGES IN EGYPT’S GREEN ENERGY SHIFT

Despite significant progress, Egypt faces challenges in its green transition. The national energy grid requires major upgrades to accommodate more renewable energy. As of 2024, renewables account for less than 12% of Egypt’s nearly 60 GW installed capacity. Financing remains another hurdle, especially as Egypt’s foreign debt approaches $160 billion. Sustained investment is critical to maintain momentum. Egypt’s commitment to green investment is clear. Egypt's green revolution will not only benefit the environment but also create a stronger, more diversified economy for future generations. The Egyptians are finally reclaiming their role as protectors of their land.

Yasmin Gamal | Apr 26, 2025