Rise of green buildings

Namrata Nulwalla, ESG and Advisory Lead, Rustomjee Group, on green buildings, net-zero design, and sustainable construction innovations

- Namrata Nulwalla

How is the green buildings segment evolving in the country? What are the latest trends?

The green buildings segment in India is experiencing a transformative evolution, driven by a combination of increased environmental awareness, proactive government policies, and the global emphasis on sustainable development. This shift reflects a broader commitment to combating climate change and promoting eco-friendly practices across industries.

One of the top trends in green building for 2024 has been the construction of Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) which are no longer futuristic; they are becoming the standard. Advances in solar panel technology, energy storage solutions, and smart grid integration are making NZEBs more achievable and cost-effective. In parallel, smart technologies are being adopted to optimize energy and water efficiency, from advanced HVAC systems and energy-efficient lighting to intelligent water management systems that minimize water wastage.

Net Zero Water and Waste are also an integral part of green buildings. Achieving Net Zero Carbon Buildings will gain traction in the coming years and will by no means be an easy feat as the focus will shift to using sustainable building materials (green certified building materials) along with energy, water and waste. Mass timber construction is gaining popularity due to its sustainability benefits and architectural versatility. Using engineered wood products like cross-laminated timber (CLT) reduces the carbon footprint compared to traditional concrete and steel.

Biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements into the built environment, is becoming a mainstream approach in green building. This design philosophy enhances the connection between people and nature, promoting well-being and productivity by integrating green walls, natural light, indoor gardens, and water features in the built environment.