India, the world's third-largest polluter, is committed to doing everything possible to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions and mitigate its environmental impact. One of the most notable measures it has begun to implement is the use of indigenous and recycled materials in construction. ecological homes.This initiative not only focuses on meeting climate goals but also seeks to preserve natural resources and the environment in which communities thrive.
The impact of the construction sector on pollution
Why would they change the way they build? The answer is simple: the construction sector is one of the most polluting in India and the world. Construction projects generate a high demand for resources, which leads to the deforestation forests and excessive exploitation of natural resources. The use of conventional materials such as cement and steel not only increases the carbon footprint but also contributes to environmental degradation. Furthermore, the excessive use of air conditioning, as mentioned in the article on global warming, also contributes to the crisis.
For this reason, India's leading builders have decided to take concrete steps to ensure that at least one fifth part of the homes built between now and 2022 must be sustainable. This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Housing, is led by the Sustainable Housing Leadership Consortium (SHLC), which funds the construction of eco-friendly homes with the aim of contributing to the fight against climate change. To learn more about the necessary transformations in the construction sector, see the article on how we have three years left to avoid climate disaster.
The need for green housing in India
India's population is growing by leaps and bounds, which means there is a growing need for housing infrastructureIn urban areas alone it is estimated that approximately 1,000 people are required 20 million homesTo comply with the Paris Agreement, where the country pledged to reduce its emissions by one-third by 2030, sustainable alternatives are needed to meet this demand without compromising the future of the planet. In this context, the Ministry of Housing and the Sustainable Housing Leadership Consortium are promoting the construction of green homes.
Green homes will not only help reduce the carbon footprint construction sector, but will also provide significant savings in energy and water consumption. It is estimated that owners of this type of housing will save around 198 million kilowatts per year in electricity consumption and 108.000 million liters of water. In addition, these homes are expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 0,2 billion tonsSimilarly, it's important to keep an eye on how wildfires will increase in the coming years in various parts of the world, which also affects construction.
The approach to sustainable construction in India
One of the most innovative aspects of green building in India is the use of indigenous materials and recycled. Architects and builders are looking for ways to integrate sustainability from design conception to construction, promoting practices that respect the environment and efficiently use available resources. Some of the most common practices include:
- Use of recycled materials: Incorporate materials that have been recovered from other construction projects.
- Designs that take advantage of natural light: Use architectural elements that allow sunlight to enter, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
- Incorporation of natural ventilation techniques: Design spaces that encourage air circulation, minimizing the need for air conditioning.
Financing programs and their implications
To facilitate the transition to more sustainable housing, various financing programs are being launched. The World Bank and the European Union have joined forces to promote the construction of sustainable cities, which includes financial support aimed at making green housing more affordable. This cooperation will not only raise awareness about the importance of sustainable construction, but will also contribute to creating a more responsible and accessible housing market.
The supply of green homes is set to grow in the coming years. Jainin Desai, head of design and sustainability at Mahindra Lifespaces, has expressed his hope that they will be offered in the near future. only ecological housingThis vision aligns with the growing demand for housing solutions that are not only affordable but also environmentally friendly. Similarly, seeing how the Smart Green Tower represents a skyscraper to curb climate change is inspiring.
Success stories in building green homes in India
In several regions of India, projects utilizing sustainable construction techniques and materials are already being implemented. For example, in communities like Auroville, homes are being developed that integrate advanced water management systems and alternative energy. Using appropriate design and self-construction methods, these homes have become a benchmark for how sustainable construction can be not only viable but also culturally significant.
The ecological homes. The Vikas Community in Auroville is a prime example. This project was carried out in three phases, using cement stabilization techniques in compressed earth blocks and rammed earth. These practices are not only sustainable but also incorporate local culture and knowledge into the construction process.
Traditional vs. modern materials in construction
As sustainable construction gains popularity, there is a resurgence in the use of traditional materials that had fallen into disuse due to the widespread preference for more industrialized construction methods. This change is partly due to the recognition of the environmental benefits and cultural aspects of vernacular construction techniques, which are adaptive and resource-efficient. Similarly, construction techniques that incorporate recycled materials have been on the rise.
Among the materials being reconsidered are earth, straw, bamboo, and other local resources that allow communities to build in harmony with their environment. This return to local resources not only improves sustainability, but also helps rejuvenate the local economy, generating employment for skilled labor in vernacular techniques.
Challenges in building green homes
Despite the progress, the construction of ecological housing faces certain challenges. challengesMisperceptions about the durability and maintenance of buildings constructed with natural materials still persist, limiting their widespread acceptance. Furthermore, the social stigma associated with traditional construction as a symbol of poverty also poses a significant obstacle.
The lack of skilled labor and adequate technology to efficiently execute these constructions is another challenge that must be overcome. It is essential that construction programs education and training be implemented to improve the skills of the workforce in sustainable construction techniques.
The future of green housing in India
As environmental awareness grows and social acceptance evolves, a promising future is opening up for the adoption of greener building practices in India. Today, wealthy clients seek an "earthy" and "Indian" aesthetic for their homes, which has resulted in structures that mimic the appearance of vernacular architecture, but often lack its eco-friendly principles. This trend toward a 'greenwashing' in design can help raise awareness about the importance of sustainable construction and position these materials as progressive and desirable.
The hope that the vernacular construction define the country's built landscapes lies in promoting a massive shift toward the adoption of these materials in urban areas, benefiting not only the environment but also the quality of life of its inhabitants.
