Green or eco-architecture and construction are all about proactively protecting the environment.
The construction industry is booming again – and we need to be mindful of the significant energy and environmental impact of large scale construction. Hopefully, growing environmental consciousness coupled with regulatory norms may see a green building movement gaining major momentum.
Energy efficiency and savings can be successfully obtained through solar heating, maximising natural lighting and cross ventilation; minimising heat ingress by use of cavity walls and double glazing insulation; use of wind/solar energy for lighting and of energy saving air conditioning; harnessing heat generated by air conditioners; employing ozone-free equipment and technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Apart from these energy saving measures , green features include rain water harvesting and zero water discharge through waste water, sullage and sewage recycle; water efficient and water saving fixtures like waterless urinals, sensor driven taps, aerators and dual flushes. Other green initiatives are recycle of construction waste, eschewing toxic paints and sealants, use of local and earth friendly materials and of renewable resources as material; avoidance of “over building”, and integrating construction into the local landscape and environment.
Many examples of eco-friendly construction in our country demonstrate that green buildings are possible and feasible. The CII-Godrej Green Building Centre in Hyderabad is the first platinum rated building outside USA and the first platinum building in the world under the 2.0 Leed version. A year ago, India had around 40 LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) rated buildings and around the same number awaiting a GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) rating. Many corporates like ITC, ICICI, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, and Grundfos are engaged in or have constructed green buildings. The number of hotels and tech parks that incorporate green principles and practices is also on the increase.
