Stellenbosch University (SU) has achieved a groundbreaking sustainability milestone with the certification of the STIAS Extension Building as the first Net Zero Carbon building on the University campus, and notably, the first of its kind at any South African university.

“This landmark achievement underscores SU’s bold commitment to a sustainable future, aligning with its goal for all new buildings to achieve Net Zero Carbon operations by 2030, and all existing facilities on all its five campuses by 2050,” says Nadeem Gafieldien, SU’s Director Environmental Sustainability.

Designed with the planet in mind, the STIAS Extension integrates a suite of innovative, energy-smart features — from strategic orientation and solar shading to natural lighting that minimises energy use. At its core, a 46.8 kWp rooftop solar photovoltaic system generates clean, renewable energy that offsets the building’s operational consumption,” says Japie Engelbrecht, SU’s Director Planning and Development at Facilities Management (SUFM).

Gafieldien said the STIAS Extension is a living example of what’s possible when innovation and environmental responsibility converge. Its certification aligns SU with South Africa’s national climate commitments and the C40 Cities global initiative, proving that sustainable, zero-carbon infrastructure is achievable.

At SUFM’s 2025 Green Living Awards event on Thursday, 2 October, Stias Director, Prof Edward Kirumira, and Engelbrecht accepted the GBCSA Net Zero Carbon certification award from Dannika Taylor, who represented the Green Building Council of South Africa and Imbue Sustainability. This company assisted the project management team in ensuring this certification.

“With this achievement, Stellenbosch University cements its position as a leader in environmental stewardship and future-focused design, setting a new benchmark for higher education institutions across the continent,” says Gafieldien.

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