UN: Greener buildings can slow warming

OSLO: Better architecture and energy savings in buildings could do more to fight global warming than all curbs on greenhouse gases agreed under the UN's Kyoto Protocol, a UN study showed on Thursday.

Better use of concrete, metals and timber in construction and less use of energy for everything from air conditioners to lighting in homes and offices could save billions of dollars in a sector accounting for 30-40% of world energy use.

"Buildings can play a key role in combating climate change," the UN Environment Programme said in a report issued in Oslo during a conference on ways to promote economic growth without damaging the environment.

Simple measures that include more blinds to keep out the Sun in hot climates, switching to energy efficient lightbulbs, better insulation and ventilation.

* Source: Times of India, Thursday, Mar 29,2007. *