Integrating Vegetation into Urban Design in Cape Town: The Status Quo

The City of Cape Town has a rapid urbanization rate leading to environmental challenges and a pressing need to incorporate vegetation into buildings. The objectives are to determine the challenges associated with the integration of vegetation into building design, the policies relate to it and the current practices used. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews with six experts in green buildings, followed by a thematic analysis. Challenges to implement vegetation into buildings include the need for water, a proper irrigation system, production of pollen, the risk for non-native plants being introduced, invasive pests, fire, road view restrictions due to trees, regulations, community mind set, higher costs, lack of experienced experts or contractors, lack in education and research, low marked demand, Cape Town climate, maintenance, and security. Green buildings are feasible in the long term. The City of Cape Town have identified seven activities in the short- medium term, that focus on sustainability and green buildings. While these goals are in place, there is a prominent lack of detailed regulations and design practices that could be followed to implement vegetation in buildings. The implementation of vegetation in buildings in Cape Town are limited. There have also been failures in the attempt to do so. Cape Town boasts with greenery at the Cape Town Station, The Fynbos building is under construction and the professional members have experience in living boundary walls. The way forward is to focus on getting regulations, policies, guides, and education in place to assist the industry.