Breakthrough for Pakistan: Green Building Code of Pakistan Gets Federal Approval

Pakistan takes a giant leap toward sustainability with the federal approval of the Green Building Code of Pakistan and Rainwater Harvesting Provisions. Learn more.

VOW Desk 27/07/2025

3 minutes read

The Green Building Code of Pakistan (GBCP-2023) and the Rainwater Harvesting Provisions for the Building Code of Pakistan (RWH-BCP-2023) have officially received approval from the Cabinet Committee for Disposal of Legislative Cases (CCLC), chaired by Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazir Tarar. This development represents a transformative step toward climate-resilient infrastructure, marking a positive turning point in Pakistan’s national development policy.

The codes were meticulously developed by the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) under the supervision of Federal Secretary for Science and Technology Sajid Baloch, and with contributions from PEC Registrar Engr. Khadim Hussain Bhatti.

National Green Standards Now Official

The Green Building Code of Pakistan sets comprehensive sustainability and efficiency standards for buildings with four or more stories. It includes mandatory guidelines on:

Site sustainability
Indoor air quality improvement
Energy and water conservation
Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
Protection of biodiversity

Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the GBCP is a milestone for sustainable urban planning in Pakistan.

Importantly, the code excludes single-family homes, low-rise buildings, and properties not connected to electricity, fossil fuels, or municipal water systems. This smart exclusion ensures resources are focused where impact is most substantial.

Rainwater Harvesting Code: A Water Crisis Solution

The Rainwater Harvesting Provisions (RWH-BCP-2023) are Pakistan’s proactive response to its growing water scarcity crisis. These provisions will be mandatory for:

Residential buildings
Commercial properties
Industrial installations

The law mandates the installation of systems for:

Rainwater collection
Storage tanks
Filtration units
Reuse of water for potable and non-potable uses

This not only reduces strain on public water infrastructure but also promotes local water sustainability in drought-prone regions.

Legal Enforcement and Institutional Reforms

To make the codes enforceable, the CCLC approved key amendments to two critical PEC by-laws:

Conduct and Practice of Consulting Engineers Bye-Laws, 1986
Construction and Operation of Engineering Works Bye-Laws, 1987

These amendments integrate the new codes under Section 25(1) of the PEC Act, 1976.

The draft Statutory Regulatory Orders (SROs) have already been legally vetted by the Ministry of Law and Justice, ensuring that the codes meet all federal legislative requirements.

Nationwide Consultation and Inclusive Drafting

One of the most commendable aspects of this process was its inclusive and transparent drafting methodology. Stakeholders from across Pakistan were involved, including:

Provincial departments from Punjab, Sindh, KP, and Balochistan
Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir
Relevant federal ministries and departments
Engineering and architectural institutions

This nation-wide engagement guarantees that the codes are practical, applicable, and locally relevant.

Why the Green Building Code Matters

The approval of the Green Building Code of Pakistan is not just a regulatory upgrade—it is a strategic climate adaptation milestone. Here’s why it matters:

1. Supports Climate Finance Access

The GBCP is a structural benchmark under the IMF’s Climate Public Investment Management Assessment (PIMA)—making Pakistan more eligible for climate financing and international aid.

2. Reduces Carbon Footprint

By minimizing energy use and promoting sustainable construction, the code will help reduce urban carbon emissions.

3. Boosts Eco-Friendly Construction

The law sets a national framework that encourages green architecture, which could stimulate the green economy and create sustainable jobs.

4. Improves Urban Livability

Cities with green-certified buildings are healthier, cooler, and more livable—helping to combat the urban heat island effect.

Next Steps for Implementation

Once the federal cabinet grants its final approval, both codes will be formally adopted across Pakistan. Enforcement will be handled by:

Provincial Development Authorities
Building Control Authorities
Engineering Institutions
Municipal and Housing Departments

Awareness campaigns, training programs, and technical support will be rolled out to support capacity-building among builders, architects, engineers, and regulators.

Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Climate Resilience

With the approval of the Green Building Code of Pakistan and Rainwater Harvesting Provisions, the nation is taking a bold and urgent step toward environmental sustainability and climate resilience. These frameworks lay the groundwork for a healthier, greener, and water-secure Pakistan.