Development and nature were always believed to be in conflict with each other. However, with concepts like green cities and buildings, urban construction is now possible without disturbing the natural habitat of the place. With the World Environment Day approaching on June 5, it is time to understand the concepts and requirements of a green building in simpler terms.
A 20, 000-square feet building is surrounded by green lawns and dotted with neatly pruned trees and plants. The scientific names of the plants are written on a placard. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) – Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre at Madhapur is a certified green building constructed with mostly recycled products. The building is constructed in such a way that it can maximise incoming daylight, ventilation and increase water efficiency. The building is a result of a public private partnership between the Government of Andhra Pradesh, Pirojsha Godrej Foundation and CII with the technical support of USAID.
CII-Godrej GBC is involved in offering consultation and advisory services to the industry for green buildings, energy efficiency, water management, environmental management, renewable energy and climate change activities. “We have a rating system in place and based on parameters like energy efficiency, use of recycled material, water management, water consumption and usage of renewable energy resources, the buildings are rated platinum, gold, silver and bronze,” explains S. Raghupathy, Executive Director – GBC. The GBC has solar panels and wind towers which contributes to a part of the energy requirements of the building. The waste water is treated biologically and rain water harvesting system is also in place.
Calling the idea that any development happens at the cost of environment a misnomer, S. Raghupathy explains that with a sound technological know-how ecological sustenance can be maintained. “Even though the initial investment is 5-8 percent higher, the long term financial benefits are high as the energy costs comes down. The builders should understand financial benefits of green building and the architects should have the technical knowledge.” He adds that even a consumer should be aware of the benefits of a green building at the macro level so that they can make an informed decision at the time of purchase. Parameters like 60 percent of the house area should be covered by daylight, sufficient cross ventilation that lowers the carbon dioxide in the room and the location of the windows are important while making a purchase. He also advises to look out for a pre-certified building.
“Preserving the natural habitat of the land and planting of species fit for the location is also an important factor. Exotic species will not survive in a new climate. Keeping the aesthetics in mind, plants can be placed to increase greenery,” says Raghupathy. In fact, he also encourages roof top and hanging gardens to help in noise and dust filtration. He believes that with available technology even a basement garden is possible that will improve the quality of life. The CII is also involved in training and creating awareness among architects, educational communities, builders and consumers. They are also venturing in green landscapes which will also serve as a recreation centre.
“A building should provide relaxation, when you look out of the window you should be able to enjoy the beauty of nature which will overall lead in increased productivity,” says Raghupathy who hopes that more people will believe in the idea that green makes business sense.
