This blog dives into the construction Industry’s role in achieving India's Net Zero 2070 Goal. How this is not just a responsibility but also an opportunity and how construction firms can leverage the benefits while contributing to the nation's goal.

Today, the construction industry stands at a pivotal moment. Globally, buildings contribute to about one-third of greenhouse gas emissions, and with the global building floor space projected to double by 2050, the need for sustainable practices has never been more urgent. 

India is at a crossroads with its growing infrastructure. It must decide whether to stick with traditional, high-emission development or adopt sustainable construction practices for a greener, more resilient future. 

The stakes are high, as the building and construction sector contributes a significant 25.6% of India’s total greenhouse gas emissions. However, with ambitious national targets of achieving Net Zero by 2070, India is signaling a clear shift towards a more sustainable path, and the construction industry has a pivotal role to play.

What is Net Zero Carbon Construction

Net Zero refers to balancing greenhouse gas emissions by reducing them and offsetting the remainder through sustainable practices. In construction, this means designing and building structures with minimal energy consumption, using renewable energy, and incorporating materials with low embodied carbon. This aligns with India’s 2070 Goal which is:

India's Roadmap to Net Zero

Achieving net-zero emissions requires a multifaceted approach, addressing both the operational and embodied carbon footprint of buildings. Key milestones on this roadmap include:

1. Reducing emissions intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030.
2. Achieving 450 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel-based power capacity by 2030.
3. Creating a carbon sink of 2.5–3 billion tons of CO₂ equivalent through enhanced forest cover.
4. Net Zero Carbon Emission by 2070.

Calculate Your Building’s CO2 Footprint with Our Carbon Footprint Calculator

How construction firms can benefit from contributing to Net Zero?Buildings are responsible for an alarming 39% of global energy-related CO₂ emissions, making the construction industry a key contributor to climate change. This issue is particularly pressing in India, where a vast majority of the buildings that will exist by 2050 are yet to be constructed. This presents an unparalleled opportunity to incorporate sustainable practices from the ground up, shaping a low-carbon future for generations to come.

Here’s why embracing green practices is a win-win proposition for India:

1. Reduced Operational Costs: Green buildings are designed to be highly energy efficient, using significantly less power for heating, cooling, and lighting. This translates into substantial savings on utility bills for owners and occupants. Case studies in India have demonstrated Energy Performance Index (EPI) values as low as 58 kWh/m²/year, showcasing the remarkable potential for energy efficiency in buildings.
2. Enhanced Marketability and Property Value: As environmental awareness grows, demand for sustainable buildings is rising among both buyers and tenants. Green buildings often command premium prices and rental rates, making them attractive investments.‍
3. Access to Green Finance: Financial mechanisms such as green bonds, green loans, and revolving credit facilities are emerging to support sustainable projects.
   • Tax rebates for adopting green building certifications.
   • Green bonds offer favorable interest rates for sustainable projects.
4. Support from the Government Schemes:
   • National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Promotes energy efficiency across sectors, including buildings, through financial incentives, technology upgrades, and capacity building.
   • Jawaharlal Nehru National Social Mission: Encourages solar energy adoption to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

How to incorporate sustainability in your construction project?

1. Broader overview of approach:
   • Design for energy efficiency: Utilize passive design techniques, optimize building orientation, and incorporate natural ventilation. Check out Harnessing Passive Design for Comfortable and Sustainable Buildings for more guidance.
   • Adopt Renewable Energy: Integrates solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems to meet energy requirements sustainably.
   • Focus on material selection: Prioritize low-carbon, locally sourced, and recycled materials to reduce embodied carbon.
2. Technology Solution:
   • Smart buildings systems for energy monitoring and optimization.
   • Building Information Modeling (BIM) to design and manage sustainable structures.
3. Cost considerations: High upfront costs can be offset by long-term operational savings and access to government incentives.

Example of Net Zero Building in India: Indira Paryavaran Bhawan

Award winning LEED Platinum-rated building that serves as the headquarters for the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. This iconic net zero building structure showcases how sustainable building practices can be economically beneficial. Here are some key points:

1. Reduced energy consumption translates to lower costs. The building's design, with passive strategies like natural daylight and ventilation, energy-efficient lighting, and a highly efficient HVAC system, significantly lowers energy consumption, leading to long-term cost savings for both building occupants and operators.
2. The building is saving  40% in electricity and 55% in water than a building of conventional design.
3. Efficient space utilisation, like the multi-level car parking, can lower costs. This innovative feature may reduce the need for extensive parking, leading to savings on land costs and maintenance expenses.

Conclusion

Net zero construction is no longer just an ideal but a necessity for India's sustainable future. By embracing green practices, leveraging innovative technologies, and aligning with national goals, the construction industry can play a pivotal role in achieving India's Net Zero target by 2070.

Builders and developers have the opportunity to not only reduce environmental impact but also unlock economic benefits, setting a benchmark for sustainable growth in the global arena. Together, we can build a greener, more resilient India.

Learn How BuiltX Core Values Align with Sustainable Design Practices

FAQs

• ‍What is the cost difference between traditional and green buildings?
  While green buildings typically have a 5-10% higher initial cost, the operational savings on energy and water can offset this within 3-5 years.

• Are there specific green certifications in India?
  Yes, certifications like IGBC, GRIHA, and LEED are widely recognized for green buildings in India. You can refer to Green Building Certification: Types, Benefits and Challenges for in-depth guidance.

• What are the most impactful green construction practices?
  Energy-efficient designs, renewable energy adoption, and the use of low-carbon materials are among the most impactful practices.