CII conference on Green Buildings calls for more activity

At the CII sponsored conference on ‘Green Buildings‘, experts called for a green building movement in India particularly for the eastern region. “

According to the Indian Green Building Council, “A green building is one which uses less water, optimises energy efficiency, conserves natural resources, generates less waste and provides healthier spaces for occupants, as compared to a conventional building.”

The Government must lead by example by transforming Government Buildings into ‘Green’. They must set an example. If we are really serious about building a Green India, the Government must show the way and convince people of the need to conserve our finite resources,” said Binoy Dutta, Chairman, West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB).

India has recently also signed a five year MOU with Switzerland to co-operate in the domain of green buildings in the country. The Swiss will share their expertise in the designing of such green buildings.

“Green Buildings will go a long run in addressing some national priorities –energy efficiency, water conservation, handling of household waste, reduced use of fossil fuels, less dependence on the use of virgin materials, health and wellbeing of citizens, etc.,” said Pradeep Dhobale, Co-Chairman, CII National Committee on Environment, and Executive Director, ITC Ltd.

Green buildings refer to environmentally sustainable buildings which do not increase pollution and help in maximising on sustainable practices. There are three primary green building rating systems in India at present namely, GRIHA, IGBC and BEE. Read more here.

IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) has also launched an IGBC Green Existing Building O&M Rating in April 2013 for existing buildings. They can also be made sustainable by utilising all parameters over the life cycle of the building. Read more here.

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