Advantages of Green Buildings in India: Success Stories and Future Prospects
India, a country that has witnessed a remarkable growth in its urban infrastructure, is increasingly adopting sustainable building practices. This trend is driven by various state governments offering incentives to promote green buildings, along with the global recognition of the LEED certification. This article explores the advantages of green buildings in India, both in terms of environmental, economic, and social benefits, as well as the success stories from different states.
State-Level Initiatives
Several Indian states have taken significant steps to encourage the adoption of green buildings. For instance, the Punjab Government, through the Punjab Urban Development Authority (PUDA), offers a 5 additional Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for buildings that achieve a Gold rating or higher under the LEED certification. Similarly, the Urban Development and Housing Department in Uttar Pradesh also provides incentives in the form of additional FAR.
In West Bengal, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and the Town and Country Planning Department offer a generous 10 additional FAR for buildings that achieve a Gold rating or higher. Andhra Pradesh, through the Industries and Commerce Department, offers a 25% subsidy on total fixed capital investment for commercial industrial projects. These incentives are not limited to commercial buildings; the Urban Development and Housing Department in Jharkhand and the Town and Country Planning Department in Haryana also provide additional FAR for buildings rated at Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels.
These initiatives indicate a concerted effort by state governments to promote sustainable construction practices, thus contributing to the overall green building movement in India.
LEED Certification and Green Building Success
India is a prominent player in the global green building movement. According to Mahesh Ramanujam, President and CEO of USGBC and GBCI (Green Business Certification Inc.), India ranks third with over 899 LEED-certified projects, with a total of 24.81 million gross square meters. States like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have also made significant contributions, with 334, 232, and 157 LEED-certified buildings, respectively.
The success of the green building movement in India can be attributed to not only commercial buildings but also other sectors such as education, manufacturing, and hospitality. Additionally, green building policies for metros and cities have further augmented the movement. Gopalakrishnan Padmanabhan, MD-APAC Middle East, GBCI, emphasizes that the demand for green buildings is on the rise, driven by both developers and state governments, with a focus on ensuring sustainable growth.
Environmental Benefits of Green Buildings
Green buildings offer numerous environmental benefits, such as enhancing biodiversity and ecosystems, improving air and water quality, and conserving natural resources. For instance, these buildings often utilize renewable resources like solar power, rainwater harvesting, and wind energy to minimize their impact on non-renewable resources.
These constructions also emphasize the efficient use of energy and water through strategies like on-site generation of renewable energy, the installation of greywater recycling systems, and the use of energy-efficient appliances. The lifecycle approach to green-building design also considers site planning, community, and land-use issues, highlighting the importance of integrated design practices.
Economic Benefits of Green Buildings
The economic advantages of green buildings are equally significant. These buildings can help reduce operating costs, improve occupant productivity, and increase asset value and profits. By decreasing the reliance on non-renewable resources, green buildings can alleviate energy and water costs, which in turn can lead to substantial cost savings over time.
Moreover, green buildings often result in higher property values due to their energy-efficient features and plan for the future. A study by the U.S. Green Building Council shows that green buildings have a 9% higher rental rate and 13% higher sale price as compared to non-green buildings. Increased efficiency and reduced operating costs make green buildings more attractive to investors and tenants.
Social Benefits of Green Buildings
One of the societal benefits of green buildings is the enhancement of occupant health and well-being. By improving indoor air quality and providing a comfortable and conducive work environment, green buildings can have a positive impact on the overall quality of life. Such buildings are often designed to maximize natural light and provide views of green spaces, contributing to better mental health and productivity.
Additionally, green buildings can contribute to healthier communities by reducing energy consumption and the associated environmental impacts. Cleaner air and water quality, and the preservation of local ecosystems are key factors in creating sustainable, healthy communities.
India's green building movement is well on its way, with growing demand and government support. As more states implement initiatives to promote sustainable construction, the benefits of green buildings will continue to expand, not only in terms of the environment but also in economic and social terms.