The lessons learned from the experiences gained in the transfer of ESTs
in the buildings sector include:
Buildings vary greatly in their function, size, shape, climate, ownership,
lifetimes, equipment, construction material, culture, quality and cost. The
mixture of characteristics also varies among countries and regions. Technology
transfer strategies need to respect these differences.
National governments have a central responsibility for promoting successful
programmes directly through government-driven programmes, and indirectly through
the creation of national environments that attract private-sector-driven programmes
and encourage community-driven programmes.
National governments could begin by identifying the technologies that are
most important in achieving its social, environmental, economic, and energy
goals for their buildings sector.
The most effective way to advance these technologies is through an integrated
programme that includes information and education programmes, full-cost energy
pricing, energy and environmental labels, building and equipment standards,
leading by example, and support for RD&D.
The largest source of funding for ESTs will be from the private sector.
To attract these funds, a country needs to remove any artificial trade, regulatory,
taxation, or commercial barriers that discourage investments.
Community organisations have an essential role to play as part of a national
strategy. Direct citizen participation in identifying priorities, barriers,
and pathways is especially important in the design and implementation of housing
reform programmes.
International linkage and regional alliances are necessary to identify
the technology needs of the buildings sector, to stimulate the development
of these technologies, and to facilitate their transfer.
