The real estate sector is perhaps one of the largest contributors to the country’s GDP, but it also has the biggest environmental footprint. As urbanisation is increasing at a rapid pace and there are new environmental concerns to address, it becomes extremely important for all the real estate players to lead and follow by practising sustainable choices.
There is a need for energy-intensive plans and resource-binding procedures that help incorporate energy-efficient systems such as solar power, rainwater harvesting, and smart building technologies. The focus should not only be on reducing carbon emissions but also on reducing costs for developers as well as buyers. The government of India has understood and recognised the gravity of sustainability in the real estate sector and, therefore, initiated some excellent initiatives to nurture and boost it. Certifications like Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) encourage developers to follow sustainable building practices.
Green and Clean living
Reducing the carbon footprint is the core objective of green and sustainable housing.
Sustainable homes leverage advanced technology, cutting-edge architectural components and renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power to create eco-friendly housing and business units and create a meaningful change in the housing industry. Sustainable builders also encourage energy-efficient lighting and appliances that reduce electricity consumption. By promoting a low-carbon lifestyle, such sustainable homes actively contribute to tackling climate change, one step at a time.
There is a huge demand for sustainable housing in India, and people are consciously searching for options that are greener and better for the environment. Big players in the Indian real estate landscape are driven by several factors, including environmental concerns, government regulations, and changing consumer preferences to build better infrastructure and create less impact on the environment.
Let’s see how sustainable housing is transforming the Indian real estate sector:
Awareness for Environment:
Conscious buyers are more aware of climate change and environmental degradation, and people are naturally more inclined towards sustainable living practices. Homebuyers are now preferring eco-friendly homes that use advanced technologies and eco-friendly materials, reduce carbon footprint, preserve natural resources, and encourage green and sustainable housing.
Government Initiatives:
The government has encouraged real estate builders to opt for sustainable housing. The government of India has launched various plans and incentives to promote sustainable housing in all parts of India. To name a few, initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) and the Green Building Council of India (IGBC) certification motivate the real estate players to adopt sustainable practices, prioritise renewable energy sources of solar and wind, and lower carbon emission. Under various government programs, housing societies have to follow strict waste management procedures and water conservation.
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Energy Conservation:
Reducing its carbon footprint on the planet should be a prime concern for all the real estate players in India. The focus should be on building sustainable homes that are designed to maximise energy efficiency through features such as solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and proper insulation. This not only encourages sustainable housing but also saves buyers from paying hefty utility bills for running AC/room heaters and lights all the time.
Water Conservation:
We all understand the severity of water scarcity in India and how it is going to impact our future. To handle this issue, builders are doing their bit by incorporating water-saving fixtures in bathrooms and kitchens, rainwater harvesting systems at a societal level, and greywater recycling techniques that minimise water consumption in society at large.
Waste Management:
Real estate Developers Buyinwho build sustainable homes treat waste reduction and recycling as a major step towards going green. Efficient waste segregation systems, composting facilities, and electronic waste management solutions, if integrated well into residential complexes and commercial buildings, are an excellent way to promote responsible waste disposal practices.
Green Spaces and Urban Planning:
Sustainable living includes being close to nature within the urban setting. Builders provide ample green spaces, rooftop gardens, and community parks within the premises, initiating a connection with nature. Well-built integrated urban initiatives focus on mixed land use, being pedestrian-friendly, and providing efficient public transportation to reduce environmental impact.
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Market Demand:
A push from the customers is driving developers to incorporate green features into their projects. The buyers are even ready to pay a premium for buying eco-friendly, sustainable homes that offer long-term cost savings in terms of energy or water, provide better indoor air quality, and provide a healthier living environment for their families.
Technology Integration:
The use of technology can be a boon towards making sustainable homes. Technology advancements like smart home automation systems enable residents to monitor and optimise energy usage and control lighting and temperature remotely. The efficient use of household appliances like ACs and geysers can further enhance the sustainability of residential properties.
Improved Quality of Life:
When buying a home, it’s crucial to consider sustainable living practices. Sustainable living not only benefits the environment but also results in improved health and well-being for individuals and communities at large. Green eco-friendly buildings with better indoor air quality, easy access to nature, and green transportation options promote one’s physical and mental health, all of which are linked to happier living.
Create a Bigger Impact
At an individual’s level, the first step towards sustainable living is realising that each one has a role to play in it. By committing to sustainable practices at the individual, local, national, and global levels, we can work together to achieve common goals and build a more sustainable future for all.
Generating Employment-
The transition from a traditional set-up to a sustainable economy drives innovation and is generating lakhs of new job opportunities. The demand for people in sectors of renewable energy, eco-friendly construction, and environmental technology is on the rise and is a source of income for many households, be it skilled labour or unskilled.
Overall, opting for sustainable homes is not just a trend to follow but a necessity for India’s rapidly urbanising landscape. As more homebuyers are stepping towards environmental consciousness and regulatory government frameworks evolve, the pressure to provide eco-friendly housing solutions is expected to rise further. It also initiates innovation and transformation in the real estate sector.
