Only 33% Amdavadis aware of 'green building'

Not many are familiar with the concept of green building in Ahmedabad. Only 33% Amdavadis are aware of the idea, revealed a study conducted by students of the Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (Cept) University.

The students from the technology department conducted a survey where they asked around 300 people about green building or green construction. The study was conducted as part of celebrations for Engineer’s Day that falls on September 15 to mark the birth anniversary of M Visvesvaraya, known as the father of civil engineering.

This year, students chose the theme of Preparedness of Real Estate Developers and Consumers to Green Construction.

Around 150 students from the technology department conducted the study in two months. It involved two types of study, technical and social, where the objective was to evaluate the existing green buildings and understand people’s awareness about the same.

According to the study, green building focuses on striking a balance between controlling the negative impact of buildings on environment and providing a comfortable habitat for occupants, thereby increasing their productivity.

While the low-income group prefers cost as the primary criterion for selecting a property (when it comes to green building), high-income group prefers locations. Design is the third criterion for selecting a property by all the income groups, stated the study.

Students also pointed out the need to create awareness among consumers as well as developers.