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Green is the buzzword in development

Development endangers environment in a variety of situations. The problem can be addressed by integrating nature-friendly technologies and practices.

Concepts like ‘Green building’ have been introduced to usher in holistic practices aimed at maintaining harmony between man and nature. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in association with several agencies, has been making pione ering efforts in this field.

The CII-Sobhraji Godrej Green Business Centre (GBC) set up in Hyderabad has been offering various services in areas such as renewable energy, environment and recycling, water management and energy efficiency.

The Indian Green Building Council, a part of the Green Business Centre initiative, has representatives from the construction industry, corporates, institutions, government and nodal agencies, architects and material manufacturers.

A Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) programme has been prepared to accord ratings to buildings constructed in accordance with the green practices. These green practices begin from the selection of the site to the fittings within and outside the building.

Control of erosion and sedimentation, storm water management, rainwater harvesting, wall and roof insulation, energy conservation, maximum utilisation of day lighting and use of eco-friendly refrigerants are among the key points in the process of implementation of the green concepts.

Construction development results in more of impervious surfaces. This results in thermal gradient differences between developed and underdeveloped areas. The phenomenon is called ‘heat island effect,’ according to the GBC. This effect can adversely impact micro-climate, flora and fauna of the region. The strategies for heat island mitigation include limiting of the building footprint, shading of the non-roof impervious areas, setting up of roof gardens and shading of roads and sidewalks.

‘Light pollution reduction’ is another interesting concept adopted by the green building designers. Excessive exterior lighting can have an adverse impact on nocturnal environments. A good lighting design can prevent ‘night sky pollution.’ The green process advocates the use of only enough light and seeks to avoid landscape lighting wherever possible.

R. Ramabhadran Pillai

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