Dr Sunita Purushottam
Head of Sustainability, Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd
How is green buildings segment evolving in the country? What are the latest trends?
The green buildings market in India is projected to reach $39 billion by 2025, with the residential segment contributing $28 billion and the commercial segment around $11 billion. This growth is driven by the integration of IoT devices in homes, enhancing security, energy efficiency, and convenience. Beyond environmental sustainability, green construction offers economic benefits, reducing energy costs by 20-30% and water consumption by 30-50%. Developers are adopting innovative practices such as wastewater repurposing, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient infrastructure with motion sensors and EV charging, as well as waste management solutions and smart lighting to minimize ecological impact.
What are your current activities in green buildings concept? Which are the key projects coming up in green buildings?
Mahindra Lifespaces is committed to delivering Net Zero buildings by 2030, with projects like Mahindra Eden, Mahindra Zen, and Mahindra Vista leading the way. Mahindra Eden, India’s first Net Zero Energy residential project, integrates energy-efficient designs and renewable energy solutions to minimize energy consumption. Mahindra Zen, Bengaluru’s first Net Zero Waste + Energy residential project, combines sustainable living with amenities like solar-powered working pods and open spaces. Mahindra Vista, launched in Mumbai, has already garnered over Rs 800 crore in sales and offers luxury living with Net Zero Waste + Energy solutions. These developments, along with collaborations with organizations like TERI, exemplify Mahindra Lifespaces' commitment to promoting sustainable urbanization through innovative, community-focused designs.
How do materials and designs play a key role? How are you sourcing the materials for green building projects?
We source materials locally, which helps us reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation while supporting regional economies. Additionally, we embrace the principles of a circular economy by prioritizing the reuse, recycling, and responsible disposal of materials. This approach not only minimizes waste but also ensures that our green building projects contribute to environmental preservation and resource efficiency. Through thoughtful design and responsible material sourcing, we aim to create buildings that are both eco-friendly and resource-efficient.
What are the challenges faced by developers and contractors in the construction of green buildings?
Green buildings are increasingly seen as higher-value, lower-risk assets, with new constructions offering a significant opportunity to integrate energy efficiency from the outset, avoiding costly retrofits. However, challenges remain, including perceptions of high construction costs, misalignment between incentives and benefits, and the mismatch between short-term real estate holding periods and the long lifespan of buildings. Despite these issues, there is strong demand for energy-efficient buildings in India, with developers recognizing that the initial capital expenditure is offset by long-term operational savings. The government can support this growth by mandating green public buildings, offering fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, and introducing mandatory building codes that incorporate green measures. While the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) for commercial buildings has seen modest success due to weak enforcement. Likewise, EcoNivas Samhita the residential code has been with limited success. Recent amendments to ECBC expand sustainability norms to cover aspects beyond energy, encouraging developers to meet global ESG standards.
What policy supports are needed for the continued growth of green buildings sector?
Expanding tax incentives for developers and homeowners investing in green building technologies can significantly reduce initial costs, while low-interest loans, facilitated through institutions like the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), can make financing more accessible for energy-efficient construction. Implementing a fast-track approval process for green building projects can minimize bureaucratic delays and encourage sustainable development. Establishing mandatory green building codes at national and state levels, aligned with frameworks like the ECBC and certifications such as IGBC and GRIHA, can ensure compliance with sustainability standards. Additionally, training programs for architects, engineers, and construction workers are essential to bridge the skill gap in green construction. State-specific incentive programs, such as offering additional Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for certified green buildings, can address local environmental challenges and encourage adoption. Government funding for research into sustainable materials and technologies will further drive innovation, lower costs, and enhance the feasibility of green building projects.
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How do you view the future of green buildings in India? What are your future plans of developing green buildings?
India’s green building market is projected to reach Rs 3.2 lakh crore by 2025, with the country ranking second globally for LEED-certified buildings and over 8 billion square feet of certified green space. The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) has been instrumental in driving sustainable construction through green certifications and technologies like solar panels, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and rainwater harvesting. We remain committed to constructing only Net Zero buildings by 2030, expanding its portfolio of green-certified projects with integrated renewable energy solutions. Future developments will incorporate innovative design elements, including building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and advanced HVAC systems to enhance energy efficiency. We are also strengthening our focus on sustainable residential communities, addressing the rising demand for eco-friendly living spaces. Collaboration with research institutions and sustainability organizations will drive innovation in materials and construction techniques, ensuring continued leadership in green building practices. We have already launched India’s first three Net Zero residential developments: One Net Zero Energy and two Net Zero Energy+ Waste, showcasing our dedication to environmental responsibility and innovation. With a 100% Green portfolio since 2014, we are working towards carbon neutrality by 2040 and actively supporting research on green buildings tailored to climatic conditions in India.
