In the wake of India’s ambitious environmental targets, the real estate sector is undergoing a paradigm shift towards sustainability.
Accounting for a significant portion of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions, the sector faces increasing pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices and technologies. According to a McKinsey report, the real estate sector contributes 39% of India’s total emissions, with building materials alone responsible for 11%. To address this pressing issue, companies within the industry are embracing sustainable measures to mitigate their environmental impact. The implementation of sustainable practices and technologies has become more accessible with advancements in state-of-the-art technology. Builders now have numerous tools and methods at their disposal to decarbonise the sector and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.
One crucial aspect of sustainable construction involves ensuring a healthy environment for construction staff. By providing adequate training to mitigate dust during construction processes, companies can minimise environmental hazards and promote worker safety. Additionally, constant monitoring of air quality levels and adherence to national building codes further enhance environmental protection measures. Waste management is another critical area that requires immediate attention. India currently produces a significant amount of construction and demolition waste, yet only a fraction is recycled. Implementing a ‘No Waste Policy’ and embracing the 3R approach—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—can significantly reduce waste generation and promote environmental sustainability.
Builders are also urged to adhere to green building certifications such as the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE). These certifications ensure that projects meet internationally recognised standards for energy efficiency and water conservation, contributing to a greener future. Moreover, integrating innovative technologies such as solar panels, UPVC doors and windows, and rainwater harvesting systems further strengthens sustainability efforts. Advanced construction techniques like Aluminium Formwork (AFW) not only improve building quality but also enhance earthquake resistance in high-rise structures. As India’s real estate sector continues to witness growth, the demand for sustainable properties is on the rise. With consumers increasingly prioritising environmental considerations, developers must accelerate efforts towards green building practices to meet market demand and contribute to the nation’s environmental goals. The real estate sector plays a pivotal role in India’s journey towards sustainability. By embracing sustainable technologies and practices, companies can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also contribute to the nation’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
