Net Zero Made Simple chief advisor & decarbonisation strategist, Dr Ashak Nathwani, will present a Net Zero roadmap developed from energy and GHG audits across 24 buildings in a case study to be presented at ARBS 2026.
The 24 buildings are operated by the Aga Khan Development Network in Afghanistan.
Using ASHRAE-aligned audit methodologies, the study identifies practical energy conservation measures, electrification strategies, and renewable energy solutions that can significantly reduce emissions.
The case study demonstrates how targeted upgrades, operational improvements, and data-driven analysis can support Net Zero goals even in resource-constrained environments, with lessons applicable to buildings worldwide.
Under the leadership of His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the Environment & Climate Change Committee (ECC) of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) appointed Nathwani as the Chief Advisor & Decarbonisation Strategist for AKDN.
In this role, he is tasked with promoting and implementing initiatives to minimise energy usage and GHG emissions in AKDN buildings.
Dr. Nathwani has already begun implementation, sharing his expertise with teams in Afghanistan, Tajikistan, the UK, India, Pakistan, Canada, the UAE, and Bangladesh.
Nathwani is well known for his work in the built environment here in Australia.
Nathwani has been one of the founding board members of the ARBS Foundation - Education & Research supporting research and training.
He served as a director on the Board of the ARBS Foundation for 10 years.
Despite his extensive commitments, Nathwani continues to lecture at the University of Sydney in the School of Architecture, Design, and Planning, as well as the School of Mechanical Engineering.
Recognising the urgency of curbing GHG emissions, particularly in the built environment.
Nathwani emphasises the importance of maintaining indoor comfort while pursuing sustainability goals. His training sessions, available online through AKF Learning Hub, focus on facility management and GHG minimisation.
Prior to joining the University of Sydney in 2012, Nathwani was at international consulting firm, Norman, Disney & Young (NDY).
He was involved with iconic projects including several green buildings, such as 1 Bligh Street (6 green stars) and all the venues for Sydney Olympics 2000.