The Rise of Green Architecture in India
The construction industry in India is witnessing a growing emphasis on green architecture, with builders increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices. The Indian Council of Green Building (ICGB), a joint initiative of the Confederation of Indian Industry and the Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre, is spearheading this movement, advocating for sustainable construction methods.
Green Building Congress 2008: A Platform for Sustainable Solutions
At the recent Green Building Congress 2008, industry leaders discussed the importance of environmentally conscious construction, highlighting its potential to minimize pollution. The event showcased a range of energy-efficient products, spanning from energy-saving light bulbs to eco-friendly carpeting. Although embraced by numerous builders and architects, the concept of green building has also attracted criticism, with some dismissing it as a passing trend.
ICGB's Role in Promoting Green Architecture
For the past three years, the ICGB has been actively promoting green building practices, offering Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifications to builders. Developed by the US Green Building Council, the LEED rating system establishes a comprehensive framework for sustainable architecture. The ICGB's own office in Hyderabad serves as a prime example of green construction. This structure, featuring courtyards that facilitate cross-ventilation and skylights that maximize natural light, significantly reduces reliance on air conditioning and artificial lighting. According to S Raghupathy, a senior director at ICGB, the building's energy consumption is approximately 30% lower than a conventional building of comparable size. Completed in 2003, this building holds the distinction of being India's first LEED-certified structure.
Future of Green Building in India
Five years after the completion of their Hyderabad office, a remarkable 320 buildings have registered for LEED certifications across the nation. Raghupathy anticipates that the number of LEED-certified buildings in India will exceed 1,000 by 2010, signifying a significant leap forward in the country's pursuit of sustainable building practices.