Green Building – The Need of the Hour

The earth is simply not sustainable today. A time will soon come when we will begin to run out of certain natural resources required for our survival. This is the reason why more and more people are focusing on green buildings. Let's see what exactly the definition of a ‘green building’ is, how it’s built and what its benefits are.

What is Green Building

Green building refers to both the structure and the practice to create environmentally sound and resource-efficient buildings, by using an integrated approach to design. These buildings employ less energy, water, create less waste and offer a healthier environment to live, work, or go to school in than normal buildings. Certain techniques are incorporated in green buildings that use resources more efficiently during the entire building cycle - construction, renovation, operation, maintenance and demolition – than in other conventional structures.


How to Build Green

There are a couple of things to be considered while creating a green building. Some of these are mentioned below:
Site selection is vital to minimize impact on the surrounding environment. For example, placing the buildings in a way that will allow it to take advantage of wind, sun's rays, etc., can reduce heating and cooling expenses.
Selection of materials is also important. Materials that are durable, contain recycled content and are manufactured to reduce harmful environmental impacts should be used.
Energy-efficient design should be incorporated into buildings to create an efficient and comfortable environment. Natural elements and technologies can save resources and increase comfort while reducing operational costs and pollutants.
Design for high indoor air quality can promote health and productivity.

Benefits

The environmental benefits of building green include:- 

• Protects ecosystems and biodiversity 
• Improves air and water quality 
• Promotes health and well-being 
• Minimizes waste and maximizes reuse 
• Conserves natural resources 
• Lowers operating costs 
• Enhances asset value and profits 

Green building is something that everyone needs to focus on as it can cut down on your energy usage, save money and keep the environment safe.

One of India's leading Property Development, Management and Consulting organizations, Salarpuria Sattva is the Founding member of IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) . The vision of IGBC is to enable a sustainable built environment for everyone and facilitate India to be one of the global leaders in the sustainable built environment by 2025. The services that the council provides are developing new green building rating programmes, certification services and green building training programmes. It also hosts Green Building Congress, its annual flagship event on green buildings.