Egypt has announced a landmark achievement for its most anticipated cultural project, as the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) received the EDGE Advanced Green Building Certification. This recognition establishes the GEM as the first museum in Africa and the Middle East to earn the prestigious distinction, placing it among a select few cultural institutions globally committed to the highest standards of sustainability.
A Milestone for Sustainable Development
The certification is a significant step in Egypt’s Vision 2030, a national strategy focused on sustainable development and environmental stewardship. By securing the EDGE Advanced status, the museum underscores the country’s commitment to integrating modern technology and green practices into its public facilities. This achievement not only advances efforts to reduce carbon emissions and conserve energy and water but also strengthens Egypt’s position as a leading global tourism and cultural hub that balances heritage preservation with innovative sustainability.
The Technology Behind the Certification
The GEM’s sustainability plan incorporates several advanced technologies to minimize its environmental footprint. Key features include sophisticated systems for monitoring and detecting water leaks, infrastructure designed to reduce heat emissions, and the generation of renewable energy through extensive solar panels installed over its parking areas. In addition to the EDGE certification, the museum has also secured eight ISO certifications covering critical areas such as energy management, environmental management, quality assurance, and occupational health and safety, highlighting its comprehensive approach to operational excellence.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Valued at $1 billion, the Grand Egyptian Museum is the world’s largest archaeological museum complex. Its opening is expected to significantly boost Egypt’s tourism sector, with projections estimating an attraction of five to eight million visitors annually. This influx is anticipated to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs and provide a substantial lift to the national economy, aligning with the government’s strategy to attract 30 million tourists by 2028. The museum’s development is also revitalizing the real estate and hospitality markets in Giza, driving demand for high-end hotels and retail outlets.
About the Grand Egyptian Museum
Located near the iconic Giza Pyramids Plateau, the Grand Egyptian Museum spans over 490,000 square meters. The institution is set to become the world’s premier destination for Egyptology, housing over 100,000 artefacts from 5,000 years of Egyptian history. Its most anticipated exhibit is the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures, which will be displayed together for the first time since their discovery.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
