GENEVA: The Baku White City project was showcased as a prime example of sustainable urban development at the UN Fourth Forum of Mayors, the “Cities Summit of the Future,” held in Geneva. This marks the project’s second participation at the UN Mayors Forum, emphasizing its role in promoting sustainable green transformation in urban spaces.
According to Trend News Agency, the Baku White City project, first introduced at a UN event in 2019 during the 68th session of the UN Economic Commission for Europe, has continued to evolve as a symbol of dynamic urban development. The project transitioned from an environmental disaster area into a thriving model city, incorporating cutting-edge urban planning solutions and sustainable construction practices.
The summit recognized several advancements in the Baku White City area, including the construction of the first certified building in the CIS region to meet BREEAM standards. The Baku White City Office Building 2020, which began construction that same year, not only c
ommemorates Azerbaijan’s victory in the Second Karabakh War but also serves as the headquarters for COP29. This building, along with others in the development, has been certified under the Carbon Risk Real Estate Monitor (CRREM) system, which assesses carbon risks in real estate.
Sustainable construction and the certification of buildings during the design phase are crucial aspects of the Baku White City project. These practices align with the broader goals of smart cities, which include the implementation of green infrastructure, energy-efficient buildings, and low-carbon technologies. Such developments set a positive example for other cities aiming for sustainable growth.
During the summit, attendees also had the opportunity to engage with Sir Norman Foster, a renowned architect involved in designing the Baku White City. Foster, who has received both the Imperial and Pritzker Prizes, expressed his satisfaction with the project’s progress and was honored with a book commemorating the 10th anniversary of th
e Baku White City project.
The forum also included participation from executive authorities of other Azerbaijani cities, such as Ganja and Bilasuvar, highlighting a nationwide focus on improving urban environments. The Baku White City project continues under the “Comprehensive Action Plan on Improvement of the Environmental Situation in Azerbaijan for 2006-2010,” initiated by a presidential decree, underscoring the national commitment to environmental sustainability and urban renewal.