The Future of Green Buildings in India's Real Estate Market

The concept of green building has gained a lot of momentum in recent years and rightly so. A green building is essentially a structure that uses eco-friendly techniques and materials in its construction, operation, and maintenance. The key objectives of green buildings are to reduce environmental impact, improve energy and resource efficiency, and provide a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment for occupants.

Green buildings have gained considerable popularity globally and India is no exception. India's real estate market has been growing steadily over the years and it has become imperative for the industry to shift towards sustainable practices. The benefits of green buildings are numerous, but the most important ones include reducing energy costs, environmental impact and improving occupant health and productivity. Additionally, green buildings provide a competitive edge, attracting tenants who are committed to sustainability.

India's government has recognized the importance of green buildings and has put in place policies to encourage their adoption. The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has established the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) to encourage resource-efficient and environmentally sustainable buildings. The ECBC is a voluntary code that provides guidelines for energy-efficient design and construction.

In India, the green building movement is led by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), a non-profit organization that promotes sustainable building practices. The IGBC provides certification for green buildings, which is recognized by the industry and provides a competitive edge to developers.

Leading developers in India have already recognized the benefits of green buildings. In 2017, DLF became the first real estate developer in India to receive a platinum rating for its commercial building in Gurgaon. The building incorporates efficient lighting and air conditioning systems, rainwater harvesting, and utilizes solar energy. Similarly, Godrej Properties has designed a LEED platinum-rated residential project in Mumbai, which uses energy-efficient lighting, water-efficient plumbing, and rainwater harvesting.

The future of green buildings in India's real estate market looks promising. With more developers realizing the benefits of green buildings and government policies supporting their adoption, the market is expected to grow significantly. The focus on sustainable development is not only good for the environment and the occupants, but it is also a smart business decision. Green buildings have a higher market value, ability to command higher rentals, and a longer lifespan.

In conclusion, green buildings are the future of real estate in India. With the government's focus on sustainable development and developers realizing the benefits, the industry is on the cusp of a green revolution. The need of the hour is to raise awareness and encourage more developers to adopt sustainable practices, thus creating a more sustainable future for our country and the planet.