New SSA Annex boosts capacity for global climate collaboration

The zero-energy facility focuses on decarbonization.

The newly opened SSA Annex, an extension of the Singapore Sustainability Academy (SSA), is set to enhance capacity building and collaboration in climate action and sustainable development. The zero-energy facility, launched in July, will foster global partnerships and support Singapore's goal in achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

"SSA is a nonprofit hub that CDL built with many partners, including six government agencies," said city. "Since its opening in June 2017, SSA has hosted 1,000 events and welcomed 35,000 visitors. The demand for such a space has only grown, leading to the creation of the SSA Annex."

The SSA Annex will house the United Nations Global Compact Network Singapore as its anchor NGO partner. This partnership aims to advance the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, encompassing 669 specific targets.

The SSA Annex is also aligned with global trends in sustainable building practices. "In order to achieve net zero, you need to decarbonize. You need to look at how you design, build, manage, and procure in the real estate sector," she said.

Given that the building and construction sector accounts for nearly 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions, An emphasised the importance of this sector in driving change. "SSA is built in Singapore, but the door is open to global NGOs, such as the UN Global Compact and the World Green Building Council," she noted.

The long-term goals of the SSA Annex are centred on aligning all stakeholders toward decarbonization and a net zero future. Singapore's Green Plan 2030 plays a critical role in these efforts, with clear pillars focused on reducing energy consumption, waste, and overall carbon footprint. "For example, by 2030, 80% of all buildings in Singapore have to be Green Mark certified, and all new developments must be super low energy," An stated.

Capacity building and skill sharing are integral components of the SSA Annex's mission. "We have to educate our value chain and supply chain on how to account for our footprint," she said. "Without the data, without the performance, we would not know where to identify areas for improvement."

The SSA Annex is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing Singapore's environmental objectives and fostering global cooperation in sustainable development. As An concluded, "The SSA and SSA Annex aim to help everyone learn more about why net zero is important and how they can contribute to these targets."