Green building practices have emerged as a transformative solution to reconcile
the gap between capital expenditure (capex) and operational expenditure (opex)
in the long run. These practices involve the construction or modification of
structures with a focus on environmental responsibility, sustainability and
resource efficiency throughout their entire lifecycle.
One of the primary objectives of green buildings is the efficient utilisation of
energy, water and natural resources while prioritising occupant health,
enhancing productivity and minimising waste, pollution and environmental
harm. Considering that buildings account for a substantial 37 percent of global
Co2 emissions, the need for strategies to digitise, decarbonise and move closer
to net-zero in the built environment is paramount.
The advantages of green buildings are multifaceted and go beyond just
environmental benefits. They translate into tangible cost savings through
reduced energy consumption, lower water usage, and minimized waste
generation. Moreover, green buildings boast lower operational and maintenance
expenses. Additionally, occupants of such buildings tend to be more productive and enjoy improved health. Importantly, the financial benefits of green
buildings significantly outweigh the initial investment required for their design
and construction.
Furthermore, investments in green buildings yield long-term value. They
increase the intrinsic worth of properties, with a growing number of building
owners experiencing a notable 10 percent or greater rise in asset value.
In addition, green buildings contribute to reduced day-to-day expenses. Reports
indicate that they have 20 percent lower maintenance costs compared to
conventional commercial structures, while green building retrofits typically lead
to nearly a 10 percent reduction in operational costs within just one year.
