Green Building Certifications: Understanding Their Importance in India

Green Building Certifications: Why They Are Essential in India

As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, the importance of green buildings has become increasingly relevant. In India, where the demand for green buildings is growing, building green requires that we pay more attention to the environmental impacts of construction and the ongoing care of buildings. This is where green building certifications come in- they help ensure that our buildings are constructed, operated and maintained in a sustainable manner.

Green building certifications are third-party ratings given to buildings that satisfy specific criteria for energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, materials, and environmental impact. In India, there are a few green building certification programs to be aware of. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) are the most popular green building certifications.

LEED is a globally recognized certification program well-known for its rigorous standards for green buildings. IGBC, on the other hand, is an Indian rating system that is more tailored to Indian building practices and sensibilities. IGBC has developed a comprehensive rating system that addresses sustainability challenges specific to India. Both LEED and IGBC certifications have a wide range of benefits, including financial incentives, brand value, reduced operating costs, and increased occupant health and comfort.

The benefits of sustainable building practices can not be emphasized enough. In India, the construction and operation of buildings contribute to 30% of our country’s carbon emissions. By building green, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint, air pollution, and energy consumption. Moreover, green buildings can improve the quality of life for occupants, as they provide better indoor air quality, improved lighting, and increased access to daylight and greenery.

One reason that building green is not as widespread yet is that some may think that the initial cost of construction is higher. However, green building certifications offer long-term savings by reducing energy, water consumption and maintenance costs. In the long run, these savings provide a return on investment for building owners. Moreover, green buildings are more likely to maintain their value, especially in high-density areas where lower environmental impacts are highly sought after.

Additionally, green building certifications can help India reach its sustainability goals. India is one of the countries most affected by climate change, yet it has pledged as part of the Paris Climate Agreement to reduce its carbon emissions by 33-35% by 2030. Green buildings can play a crucial role in reducing our carbon footprint while also creating energy-efficient, sustainable, and healthier futures for all.

To conclude, green building certifications like LEED and IGBC are an essential tool in reducing the environmental impact of buildings in India. They incentivize companies, developers, and architects to adopt sustainable building practices that provide a better quality of life for occupants and reduce long-term operating costs. In turn, this helps India achieve our climate change goals while ensuring sustainable and innovative development.