An International Panel of Experts (IPE) has been formed by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) to review its Green Building Masterplan and fast-track the adoption of green buildings.

The five-member group includes foreign experts in the field of green buildings and sustained developments. Two local experts from BCA's Green Mark Advisory Committee are also part of the panel. They will meet in Singapore from Sept 29 to Oct 2.

During the visit, the panel will meet BCA and key representatives from the public, private and people sectors to review the various initiatives under the Green Building Masterplan.

Dr John Keung, CEO of BCA, said since good progress has been achieved since the introduction of the BCA Green Mark for buildings in 2005 and the Green Building Masterplan in 2006.

"We now have about 130 green building projects, with another 200 projects awaiting assessment. All together, these projects would give a total of 15 million square metres of floor space certified under the Green Mark scheme,' he said.

'BCA wants to further advance the green building movement in Singapore, with emphasis on the greening of existing buildings. We will draw fresh perspectives from the experts, especially in promoting environmental sustainability for existing buildings, which are in need for upgrading to improve their energy efficiency."

IPE member Ms Maria Atkinson, Global Head of Sustainability, Lend Lease, will deliver a keynote address on 'The Value of Green Buildings'.

As an Environmental Scientist who is internationally recognised as a passionate advocate for green buildings, she will share her experience in leading a global organisation towards realising its corporate social responsibility to be a sustainable organisation.

To cap the panel's four-day visit here, the BCA will hold a breakfast talk for CEOs on Oct 2.

gwensin@sph.com.sg