Pune: Even as the ESR shows Pune losing its green cover, Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) says there is an increase in green buildings in city. According to IGBC, this year, at least 40 residential and commercial complex get green building certifications including the pre-certificates. A relative increase than last year which accounted for only 7 - 8 certifications.
"Last year it was only 7-8 certifications in institutes and organizations. This year there are residential complexes applying for Green Building certification, especially pre certificates," said Poorva Keskar, vice chairman of IGBC, Pune chapter. Out of the 40, 10 to 15 are pre-certifications, which are certificates awarded to under construction buildings using eco-friendly material along with implementing water and energy conservation techniques.
Asking Anagha Paranjpe, member of IGBC, Pune on what qualifies a building for the coveted Green ratings, she said, "It is like a competition, we have points allotted for each system. We check for water use, energy use, indoor air quality, drinking water quality, green cover and material used for construction and interiors. 2 points are allotted for using energy efficient lighting and the rain water harvesting can give 5 to 10 points." Buildings need minimum 32 points to achieve the basic certification, more the points higher the level achieved.
Apart from using renewable sources of energy like wind and solar, replacing energy efficient electrical appliances, using dual flush tanks and using eco-friendly paints - rain water harvesting and waste management add on to the points for the certification. Paranjape added, "With all these activities for getting certified, building save 20 to 30 per cent electrical costs, 30 to 50 per cent water usage and 10 to 20 per cent carbon emissions."
Advantages of Green Building Certification
- Reduces energy and water usage
- Reduces electricity and water bills
- Low carbon emissions, improves carbon credits especially for industries
- Improves indoor air quality and health of occupants
- Low maintenance required for green buildings as they're eco-friendly
- Tax benefits can be availed for green certified buildings
- For commercial and industrial institutions, brand name improves with eco friendly practices
Green home rating system
Certification Level Points
Green (Basic) Certification 32 - 39
Silver 40 - 47
Gold 48 - 59
Platinum 60 - 80
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