Real estate players are increasingly pledging their commitment to remain carbon-neutral

- ANUPMA KHETAN

Customer Experience Evangelist, Sunteck Realty

What is your view on the concept of green building and its relevance in India?

The idea of 'Green Buildings' has now come to be recognized as the natural progression for modern India. The term 'green' refers to an effective plan that guarantees the systematic and effective use of resources needed for building projects. According to WHO, by 2050, the UN projects that 68% of people would reside in urban areas. Therefore, it is essential that we consider sustainable methods of living. Green building can be the perfect answer to the woes like resource crunch, increasing urbanization, the fast-depleting water resources, etc. The practice of using environmentally conscious and resource-efficient structures and procedures is now becoming necessary.

How is the Indian real estate industry responding to the green buildings?

People over time have understood what the term 'Green Buildings' refer to and are making an effort to keep nature in mind during the construction. In India, there is a growing consciousness of the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle and hence the need for greener buildings has increased. Nowadays, potential homebuyers are looking for verified greenhouse projects by putting a strong emphasis on energy-efficient designs, sustainable and renewable energy sources, sustainable building materials, etc.

How is the company promoting the concept of green buildings in its projects?

Green buildings are extremely important to us at Sunteck Realty. Green buildings are a natural extension of our DNA, which includes sustainability as a key value. For our efforts to promote sustainability and environmental protection, we have been awarded EDGE Green Building Pre-Certification for our four residential projects namely Sunteck Beach Residences (SBR) in Vasai; 4th Avenue SunteckCity; Oshiwara District Centre (ODC) in Goregaon (W); Sunteck MaxXworld; and Sunteck ONEWorld in Naigaon; and two commercial projects - Sunteck Icon and Sunteck BKC51 in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). We work hard to raise our clients' understanding on the value of sustainable development and green building. We intend to make continuous efforts in educating ourselves and our customers on this subject.

What is your view on the challenges in green buildings space?

It is encouraging to see India catching up in terms of green building techniques. State governments should consider offering subsidies or incentives for green construction, which can be done at both the private and governmental levels. A major challenge when it comes to constructing green projects is the fact that initial design and construction costs are high. Green projects need long-term investments and can be a great catalyst for economic growth.

How do you see the market opportunities in green buildings?

It is expected to become more pertinent as the country moves towards a sustainable future with green buildings offering a global solution for cities, communities and neighbourhoods around the world to address environmental concerns, reverse climate change, and enhance the health and well-being of their inhabitants. The business sentiments are positive too, as we can see real estate players increasingly pledging their commitment to remain carbon-neutral. The future of Indian green building segment, therefore, is bright and holds a promising future.

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