Nature’s call for “Green Building” revolution

People spend major part of their life time indoor i.e. inside the buildings, which may be their homes, offices, hospitals, shops, factories, educational and other places.

- ER. PRABHAT KISHORE

The time varies from 60 to 90 percent depending upon the nature of jobs and livings. According to UNEP, these buildings are a major source of carbon emissions (nearly 39%) causing global warning. Depleting natural resources, rapid industrialization and urbanization have led a negative impact on the environment and life-cycle. To tackle this source of global warming, “Green Building” concept has evolved. A Green Building is one which uses less water, optimizes energy efficiency, conserves natural resources, generates less wastes & pollutions and provides healthier space for its occupants as compared to a conventional building. A green building in its design & construction minimizes negative impacts. It is based on “Triple Bottom Line (TBL)” benefits, which accounts for social and environmental performances in addition to financial performance. The concept is also termed as 3P approach - People, Planet and Profits.

In India, as per census 2011, nearly 31.16 % population are living in urban areas. The government had informed Lok Sabha that by 2050, nearly 60% of population will live in cities as India’s rate of urbanization is dramatic. There has been increase in nearly 700% commercial energy consumption in last four decades and there is water shortage of nearly 225 million liter per day (mld) in major Indian cities. World Wildlife Fund (WWF) survey report reveals that, 100 cities, including 30 in India, may face acute water shortage by 2050.

In Indian context, a Green Building construction contains, as its components, all Panch-bhootas (5 manifestations of nature), i.e. Prithvi (Bhumi, earth)- Sustainable sites & materials, Apas (Jal, water)- Water efficiency, Agni (Fire)- Energy efficiency, Aakash (Space)- Daylight & atmosphere, and Vayu (Air)- Indoor environmental quality & pollution measures.

PRITHVI-MATERIAL EFFICIENCY