Sustainable Real Estate in India: Trends and Predictions

Sustainable Real Estate: India and Beyond

The real estate sector, the backbone of a number of the global economies, is under increasing pressure to embrace sustainability. Properties alone are responsible for a substantial proportion of global carbon emissions and use of resources. In India, with an urbanising populace and developing infrastructure, adopting sustainable real estate practices is not merely an option but an imperative. This blog explores the point where sustainability and real estate overlap, with a specific focus on the Indian situation and the leading state in this green revolution, Gujarat. 

The Need for Sustainable Real Estate

India's real estate sector is a force to be contended with, spurred by economic expansion. But such a massive and booming industry has to leave an equally huge environmental impact. Did you know that buildings alone are causing nearly 40% of greenhouse emissions globally, according to the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC)? With urbanisation driving demand for houses and offices, sustainable real estate in India presents a solution to striking a balance between growth and responsibility. Consider lower electricity bills from solar homes in India, healthier air due to green homes in Gujarat, and houses that retain their value longer—who wouldn't wish for all this?

Sustainability Regulations and Certifications in India

In India, there are a few major certifications that are driving the shift towards sustainable real estate.

• GRIHA rating (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) is a homegrown system of benchmarks that are specific to the Indian real estate topography.

• LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is another popular global standard adapted in the Indian scenario. India's dedication to green building practices is reflected by its third position in the world in LEED green building certifications.

• The Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) outlines minimum energy efficiency requirements for building design and construction in India. 

Case Studies - Sustainable Real Estate Projects in Gujarat

Gujarat has been at the forefront of sustainable real estate in India, with many projects that feature innovative green practices. Listed below are some of the major projects and a summary of their green initiatives:

• SRK Empire, Surat: A diamond manufacturing plant that is Net Zero certified, emphasising its dedication towards minimising environmental footprint. It is equipped with cavity walls for insulation, high SRI roofing to lower energy requirements, and a pressure control system to conserve water, and is LEED Platinum certified.

• GIFT City, Gandhinagar: The first Greenfield Smart City of India to be awarded the IGBC Green Cities Platinum rating, is built with a focus on urban sustainability. It is built with integrated land use patterns, has compact city planning with 35% of the total area covered by public green and open spaces, 100% green buildings, and boasts connectivity of metro rail to curb carbon emissions.

• Shapath V, Ahmedabad: A LEED GOLD-rated commercial building located on SG Highway, constructed from green materials. Fly ash bricks have been used for construction, and there is a commitment to topsoil conservation on the premises. A water treatment plant is available for recycling flushed water, which guarantees 30% less electricity cost through natural light and energy-efficient HVAC systems.

What’s Next for Sustainable Real Estate in India - Future Prospects

The future is bright—and green. Here's what the experts foresee:

• Green-Conscious Consumers: As humans wake up to the impacts of climate change, green homes in Gujarat and net-zero real estate in Ahmedabad will see a surge in demand.

• Technological Advancements: Green buildings in Ahmedabad will become more affordable as new smart materials and intelligent systems of construction emerge.

• Large Investments: With India set to become net-zero by 2070, climate-friendly initiatives will receive a cash injection from the government, thereby bolstering their growth.

Sustainable real estate in India by 2030 may be the rule, not the exception. 

Conclusion

Sustainable real estate in India is more than a trend—it’s India’s path to a healthier, wealthier future. Green buildings in Ahmedabad and eco-friendly homes in Gujarat are leading the charge, proving that eco-friendly living can be practical and profitable. Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or just curious, this shift—especially in sustainable urban development trends —is worth keeping an eye on. After all, who doesn’t want to live in a place that’s good for both people and the planet?

Sources:

https://digitalcommons.lmu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1228&context=cate

https://www.iiflonehome.com/blog/the-need-for-sustainable-housing-in-india-challenges-and-opportunities

https://www.grihaindia.org/