Amrish Shah is the Founder and Principal of Urban Green Consultants, a leading sustainability consultancy in Kenya specializing in high performing buildings. Amrish holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Monash University, Melbourne, Australia and a Masters of Environmental Management majoring in Sustainable Development from the University of Queensland, Australia. He is a LEED Green Associate, Green Star Accredited Professional, EDGE Expert, EDGE Auditor, and TRUE Waste Advisor. He spoke to Construction Kenya Showcase.
Could you tell us about your educational background and how it influenced your career in sustainable architecture and green building?
I began my studies in business commerce, which gave me a solid grounding in project management, finance and strategic planning. Later, I pursued a master’s degree in sustainable development, where my focus turned to environmental responsibility and resource management. Moving into green buildings from a business and sustainable development background was a leap and a learning curve, but it gave me a unique lens. I approach green building with an eye for practical outcomes—helping clients see sustainability as both an environmentally sound choice and a strategic business investment.
What specific green building certifications or credentials do you hold, and how have they shaped your approach to projects?
I hold several key credentials, including LEED, Green Star, EDGE, WELL and TRUE Waste. Each certification has shaped my approach by adding unique layers to our understanding of sustainability. LEED and EDGE are invaluable for driving energy efficiency and resource conservation, while WELL ensures that we focus on occupant health and comfort. TRUE Waste, on the other hand, underscores the importance of responsible waste management. Together, these credentials allow Urban Green Consultants to provide clients with a comprehensive sustainability approach that enhances building performance, occupant well-being and environmental stewardship.
Could you share your journey in establishing Urban Green Consultants and the key challenges you faced in the early stages?
Starting Urban Green Consultants was a rewarding but challenging journey. Coming from a business and sustainable development background, I worked hard to gain technical expertise and build credibility in green buildings through certifications like LEED and Green Star. Early on, the biggest hurdle was educating clients on the long-term value of sustainability, especially when it came to upfront investment. Convincing stakeholders of the financial and environmental benefits was crucial. By demonstrating measurable impacts—such as reduced energy costs and improved market appeal—we established trust and paved the way for green building as a practical and profitable approach in East Africa.
Urban Green Consultants has played a pivotal role in the green building movement in East Africa. What do you consider your firm’s most significant accomplishment to date?
Our proudest accomplishments include several regional firsts that have set benchmarks in sustainable building. I was part of the team that achieved Kenya’s first LEED-certified building, which laid the foundation for further sustainable development in the country. Urban Green Consultants went on to achieve East Africa’s first LEED Platinum project—a significant milestone showcasing the region’s capability to meet world-class sustainability standards. We also supported Ethiopia’s first EDGE-certified project and now hold the highest number of green building certifications in the region, reinforcing our leadership in advancing sustainable building practices across East Africa.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, how would you define green building and its importance in today’s world?
Green building means designing, constructing and operating buildings in ways that use fewer resources, generate less waste and promote occupant health—all while reducing costs in the long run. The importance of green building today is substantial. With buildings accounting for a major portion of global emissions, green practices address critical issues like climate change, resource depletion and public health concerns from poor indoor air quality. By optimising energy, water and material use, green buildings reduce operating costs, create healthier environments and enhance overall resilience. For cities experiencing rapid growth, sustainable buildings are essential to ensuring that development is beneficial, both environmentally and economically, for communities.
What are some of the most innovative green building practices or technologies you’ve encountered in your projects?
Innovation in green building doesn’t always mean new technology; in fact, some of the most effective practices take inspiration from pre-air-conditioning construction, like optimising building orientation and using natural ventilation. We applied such principles in a recent school project with perforated walls to balance natural airflow with acoustic needs. Of course, advanced lighting systems, efficient HVAC, smart metering and renewable energy solutions such as solar and battery storage are also highly valuable. Combining tried-and-tested passive techniques with cutting-edge technologies allows us to design buildings that are both sustainable and adaptable to modern needs.
How would you assess the current state of green building in Kenya? Are we at par with other countries or playing catch-up? What trends do you foresee in the near future?
Kenya has made significant strides in green building, with private sector players leading the charge. Companies increasingly recognise the value of sustainable design, which is why Nairobi in particular, has seen a rise in LEED and EDGE certified buildings. However, government policy has been slower to respond. There’s a great opportunity for policy incentives like tax breaks, preferential zoning and faster approvals for sustainable projects—initiatives that could drive broader adoption with minimal cost to the government. Looking forward, I anticipate more energy-efficient, low-carbon buildings becoming the norm as awareness and demand grow, and with the right support, Kenya could emerge as a green building leader in the region.
Congratulations on being awarded the IFC EDGE Buildings Expert of the Year for East Africa! How did it feel to receive this recognition, and what does it mean for you and your firm?
Thank you! Receiving this award was a tremendous honour and a validation of the hard work we’ve put into advancing sustainable practices in East Africa. It wasn’t just a personal milestone but also a recognition of our team’s commitment to bringing the best of green building to the region. This award is a testament to the impact our work has had, and it motivates us to keep pushing forward and raising the bar for sustainability. It shows our clients that their investments in green building are part of a larger, impactful movement towards a more sustainable future.
Outside of your work in green building, what are some of your personal interests or hobbies? How do they influence your professional life?
I enjoy outdoor activities, especially hiking and camping, which help me connect with nature and remind me of the importance of preserving it. Spending time outdoors reinforces my commitment to creating spaces that respect and harmonise with the natural environment. I also enjoy reading thought-provoking publications, books and blogs that keep me informed and inspired on various issues, often intersecting with sustainability.
How do you unwind after a long day or week in the fast-paced world of construction and sustainability?
Spending time with my family, especially with my young child, is one of the best ways to unwind and gain perspective. I also enjoy getting out of town to camp in the wilderness, which allows me to reset and reconnect with the natural world. Music is another way I unwind, whether it’s listening to my favourite songs or playing guitar. These activities not only help me relax but also inspire me to keep sustainability at the core of my work. They remind me that the ultimate goal of what we do is to preserve our world for future generations.
