Carbon Emission Trading in South African Construction Industry

The quest for reduction of greenhouse gases (GHGs) through the use of carbon trading system has been on the increase as a result of the adoption and promotion by notable world agencies such as United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), among others. The mitigating approaches were introduced by the later to curb and minimize amount of GHGs produced by manufacturing, construction and other industrial and heavy engineering based industries. In view of its continuous popularity and adoption by developed countries, this study examines the concept of carbon trading principles and systems and their adoption in the South African construction industry with a view to enhancing sustainability of construction projects geared towards achieving overall sustainable goals. History of emission trading and the concept of GHGs were assessed using previous and relevant literature materials. The study further examines the two emission trading systems, that is, cap and trade as well as baseline and credit, and suggested the earlier for the construction industry based on their benefits and flexibility. Various ways of enforcing the system were also highlighted with emphasis on the willingness and readiness of construction experts, professionals, developers, regulators and other concerned stakeholders in reducing greenhouse gases in the execution, usage and reuse of construction projects.