UNICEF commits to sustainable buildings around the world

The buildings sector, which includes energy used for constructing, heating, cooling and lighting , as well as the appliances and equipment installed within, accounts for over one third of global energy consumption and emissions. This is echoed in the UN system’s operations, with office buildings and facilities being responsible for the majority of the UN-system’s environmental impacts associated with water and energy consumption and waste generation. 

UNICEF’s commitment to environmental sustainability includes a remarkable record of actions to improve the environmental performance of its buildings. With a portfolio of activities across the world, UNICEF inspires positive change in multiple locations, through renovations, refurbishments, green building certifications, solarization and introduction of water saving systems. 

^{Munir Safieldin, UNICEF Representative to Uganda, Dr. Robin Nandy, the UN Resident Coordinator to Uganda, Susan Ngogi, UN World Food Programme (WFP) Country Director Abdirahman Meygag, and ambassadors, celebrate the completion of what is now the official.}

UGANDA – Renovation for energy and budgetary efficiency

The new official headquarters of UNICEF, WFP and UNAIDS in Uganda are hosted now in a 7 floor building, that is the first-ever United Nations-owned property in the country. Constructed in 1962 it originally served as the home for senior UNICEF staff.

“Over the decades, as UNICEF grew and our needs expanded, the compound transitioned into a back-office storage facility. But rather than let it fade into history, we saw an opportunity. Faced with rising rental costs, we made a strategic decision to transform this space into a vibrant, eco-friendly home for UNICEF and our partners—a move that reflects our commitment to both financial prudence and environmental sustainability”, said Munir Safieldin, UNICEF Representative to Uganda during the inauguration.
“I'm extremely grateful for these measures, which answer our call for action on climate, it is truly encouraging to see that this building has been designed with the best interests of the planet at heart”, said Abdirahman Meygag, WFP Country Director. 

The newly inaugurated space is more than just an office building, it symbolizes a new chapter of cooperation, designed to better serve those most in need. The representatives of the 3 UN entities shared their conviction that this common premise is an enabler and opportunity for stronger partnership between them. 

The building is set to use 50% less energy than a traditional office, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. It is designed as a 2nd Tier EDGE Compliant building with energy savings that exceed the 40% benchmark of the certification.​

Solar power will generate around 80% of the building’s energy needs, showcasing the agencies' commitment to environmental responsibility. Its innovative water systems are designed to recycle and reuse water, drastically minimizing waste.  A Waste Water Treatment Plant on Site to recycles black and grey water for toilet use and irrigation and the toilets have efficient sanitary fittings that reduce water consumption by over 25%.​ 

In addition to efficiency gains, the entire campus has a barrier free approach to Accessibility throughout with ​grab rails dedicated toilets for people with reduced mobility​, braille labels,​ a creche for the staff with children​, a gym​, a medical room , a prayer room​ and multiple meeting room sizes and private phone booths.

The investment is expected to pay off within 15 years.  

MOZAMBIQUE- UNICEF’s and Mozambique’s first EDGE certified building 

In 2021, the decision was made to replace the old, unsafe office block in Maputo, housing 160 staff. The renovation was not evaluated as a viable solution, and the old structure was replaced with a new efficient building. Aligned with UNICEF’s commitment to sustainability, the new building was designed to meet the ambitious standards set by EDGE.

Accessibility also played a key role in the design of the new office, integrating of comprehensive accessibility features, guided by universal design principles to ensure that the space is fully inclusive and usable by all staff and visitors, including persons with disabilities.

Key features include:

• Energy Efficiency: Incorporating a solar photovoltaic system, energy-saving lighting and air conditioning, and a thermally efficient facade and roof, the office achieved a 50% reduction in energy consumption compared to conventional buildings, translating to annual energy savings of 71 MW/h.
• Water Conservation: The use of low-flow fixtures, dual-flush toilets, and a rainwater harvesting system resulted in a 29% decrease in water usage, conserving 270 m³ of water annually.
• Material Efficiency: By sourcing materials locally, minimizing concrete use, and focusing on sustainable construction practices, the building reduced its embodied carbon by 35%, saving 988 MJ/m² in embodied energy during construction.

This accomplishment significantly reduces UNICEF’s environmental impact and operational costs, while setting a precedent for sustainable construction in Mozambique and beyond. 

Receiving the EDGE certification marks the beginning of our commitment to sustainability, but maintaining a truly sustainable office requires ongoing dedication to sustainable practices. UNICEF Mozambique embodies this through initiatives like recycling bins, eco-friendly coffee machines, plastic-free meetings, carpooling options, bicycle racks, and electric vehicles.

Maria-Luisa Fornara, UNICEF Representative in Mozambique states, “We are invested in acting on climate change and sustainability. If we do not invest in our own premises, we are not living up to our principles. When I host other agencies here for UN Country Team meetings, I am proud of our new building. When we speak with partners about sustainability and climate change, they know that we walk the talk, living up to UNICEF’s core principles.”

Advice to other UN entities when pursuing an EDGE certification

Achieving the EDGE certification requires time and commitment but is worth the effort. UNICEF Representative Maria-Luisa Fornara and Deputy Representative Sharada Thapalia offer the following advice:

• Form a Construction Committee with in-house engineering and design talent early on. Monitor construction daily.
• Take your time with the design process and get it right. Allow time for legal and government clearances.
• Be open to new materials and technologies that are locally available.
• Balance cost-effectiveness with environmental friendliness.

Consult with staff who will use the building for feedback and be open to modifications. Embrace creativity and push for the best solutions for your staff.

TAJIKISTAN- The country’s first EDGE certified building belongs to UNICEF

In 2024, UNICEF Tajikistan officially became the first organization in the country to achieve EDGE Building Certification for its office premises. The office has reduced energy consumption by 40%, by insulating its roof and exterior walls, using efficient space heating and in addition installing motion sensors in areas, and smart energy meters for real-time monitoring and optimization. In addition the building uses own produced energy from solar panels.

22% savings on water usage are achieved by water conservation measures, such as low-flow fixtures and dual-flush toilets to minimize water waste, infrared water taps for efficient water use, and a rainwater harvesting system.

For the renovation, existing building elements were valorized and reused, and local materials were sourced. This allowed the building to have 99% less embodied carbon compared to a new built.

The EDGE audit process for UNICEF Tajikistan commenced in March 2024 and successfully concluded in December 2024. Maruf Kazidzhanov, Administrative Associate at UNICEF Tajikistan, played a key role in overseeing the audit process and coordinated efforts to meet the rigorous certification standards. Reflecting on the achievement, he recalls the immense pride and sense of accomplishment felt when UNICEF Tajikistan was officially awarded the EDGE Certification, recognizing the office’s commitment to environmental sustainability and resource efficiency. 

During his visit to Tajikistan in the summer of 2024, UN Secretary-General António Guterres commended UNICEF’sachievement in advancing environmental sustainability at its Dushanbe office, recognizing it as a model for green practices within the U.N. system. He also reaffirmed his support for U.N.-led initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and driving climate action across the country. 

The office also has a dedicated staff-led Green Team which, actively promotes energy efficiency, recycling and waste reduction through awareness campaigns and other initiatives that encourage eco-friendly lifestyles, including:

• Plastic-free meetings to reduce single-use waste
• Walking challenges to promote healthy, low-carbon lifestyles
• Tree-planting activities to support reforestation and combat climate change. 
  

MADAGASCAR- Entirely powered by solar panels

Since 2023, UNICEF offices across Madagascar have been exclusively powered by solar panels. The transition to solar energy not only reduces UNICEF's long-term operational costs but also frees up additional funds to support children. 

Since installing solar systems, UNICEF Madagascar no longer pays for city electricity. The solar panels generate enough power for the day, and the batteries store energy for the night. An additional benefit is that on-site generate solar energy is consistent, and personnel can work undisturbed.