We adhere to strict green building norms mandated by SEIAA and SPCB.

Prasanna Venkatesh G, Executive Vice President - Plumbing, Fire & Environment, Sobha Limited

How is the concept of green buildings gaining traction in India?

Green buildings are typically buildings which use less water and energy, conserves materials and resources and generates less waste both during construction and occupancy than a conventional building. Therefore, to go green makes both environmental and financial sense. Cost and benefit analyses indicate that the incremental cost, if any, is not very insignificant if green features are adopted in the design stage itself and the ROI is as little as 3-5 years (USGBC). However, this depends on the rating system adopted and the rating level targeted.

Apart from this, the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEF & CC), Government of India has notified that all projects receiving precertification from any of the leading Green Rating agencies will be considered for fast-track appraisal for environmental clearance. Various state governments and local bodies (e.g. Punjab, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh etc) offer various incentives in terms of Additional FAR, reimbursement of certification fee, financial assistance etc.

The tangible benefits combined with support from governmental agencies have really given impetus to the Green Building movement in India and consequently being adopted by most developers throughout the country.

What is the latest trend in industrial buildings and office buildings in adopting green practices?

In the lifecycle of industrial building and office buildings, the most significant cost during the Operation and Maintenance is the cost associated with energy and water consumption. A green building typically reduces the energy consumption by 30%-50% and water consumption by up to 40% and the costs associated with them (TERI). Besides, a green rating assures healthful living spaces to its occupants.

Most developers developing office buildings are opting for Green Ratings as they can sell the spaces at a premium compared to conventional buildings. Industrial buildings are mainly energy intensive and Green Buildings ensure optimisation of energy use through use of various green features like renewable energy, efficient pumps and motors, LED lighting etc. to name a few.

What are your major activities and achievements towards green practices and green buildings?

At Sobha, we are committed to sustainable development through our comprehensive approach to green practices and buildings. We adhere to strict green building norms mandated by SEIAA and SPCB, ensuring compliance and promoting environmental sustainability. Our key activities and achievements include:

Sewage treatment and water conservation: We implement 100% sewage treatment, water recycling, and rainwater harvesting to conserve resources. Our water-efficient fixtures and native vegetation landscaping further aid conservation efforts.

Renewable energy integration: We lead in integrating solar PV and hot water systems. Energy-efficient measures and smart metering help optimise consumption and reduce our carbon footprint.

Pollution control and waste management: Our construction focuses on air quality management and waste control. We use local materials, segregate waste, and promote recycling.

Passive architecture and heat island effect mitigation: We use passive design for natural ventilation and lighting, reducing the need for artificial systems. Vegetation on our sites helps mitigate heat island effects.

Resident health and well-being: We prioritise health with facilities, ample daylight, and ventilation. We promote sustainable living.

Community engagement and outreach: We engage communities and promote sustainability beyond our projects. Sharing knowledge inspires others to adopt green practices.

What are the technologies and solutions offered by the company in green building space?

Sobha is at the forefront of sustainable development in the construction industry, offering a range of innovative technologies and solutions in the green building space. These include:

100% sewage treatment: Sobha ensures that all sewage is treated, contributing to a cleaner environment and sustainable water management.

Treated water recycling and reuse: The company implements advanced systems for recycling and reusing treated water, reducing water consumption and promoting conservation.

Renewable energy harvesting: Sobha harnesses solar energy through photovoltaic (PV) systems and solar hot water systems, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources and lowering carbon emissions.

Mandatory EV charging facility: Sobha provides mandatory electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities in its parking spaces, encouraging the use of electric vehicles and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Basic facilities for construction workforce: The company prioritizes the well-being of its construction workforce by providing basic facilities, ensuring a safe and healthy working environment.

Landscaped areas with native vegetation: Sobha incorporate native vegetation in its landscaped areas, promoting biodiversity and creating green spaces that enhance the environment.

Rainwater harvesting: The company implements rainwater harvesting systems to collect and store rainwater, reducing dependency on external water sources and mitigating water scarcity.

Solid waste management: Sobha adopts efficient solid waste management practices, minimizing waste generation and promoting recycling and proper disposal.

Low flow plumbing fixtures: The company installs low flow plumbing fixtures to reduce water consumption without compromising on functionality.

Compliance to green building norms: Sobha ensures compliance with statutory conditions and green building norms, contributing to sustainable development and environmental protection.

These technologies and solutions demonstrate Sobha's commitment to sustainability, environmental responsibility, and creating healthy living spaces for its customers and communities.

What is your view on the challenges in achieving the goals of green buildings?

The growth of green building practices faces numerous challenges hindering widespread adoption. A primary obstacle is the perceived higher initial construction costs associated with implementing green features and technologies, despite the potential for long-term savings. Additionally, a lack of awareness among developers, builders, and consumers about the benefits of sustainable construction impedes adoption, emphasizing the need for educational initiatives. Inconsistencies in regulatory standards, shortage of skilled professionals in green building practices, limited availability and high costs of sustainable materials, and financing challenges further contribute to the barriers. Moreover, keeping pace with rapid technological advancements, changing market perceptions, fostering industry collaboration, and addressing the resilience of green buildings to climate change are critical components in overcoming these challenges.

Efforts to overcome these challenges should focus on improving awareness through educational initiatives, advocating for consistent regulatory frameworks, investing in training programs for green building expertise, promoting the production and affordability of sustainable materials, and enhancing communication and collaboration within the fragmented construction industry. Additionally, addressing market perceptions, facilitating financing for green projects, and integrating climate resilience measures into planning and construction processes are essential for fostering the widespread adoption of green building practices.

What is your market outlook in green buildings? What are your future plans?

The market outlook for green buildings is positive and showing growing trend. The focus on sustainability, environmental responsibility, and energy efficiency had been driving increased interest and investment in green building practices.

Currently, over 40% of India’s commercial Grade A office stock is green certified, with projections to surpass 50% in the next decade, aligning with global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) trends. The BRSR framework by SEBI, mandating ESG disclosures, is driving transparency and accountability in sustainable practices.

India’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure is further supported by government initiatives and private sector efforts. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency’s standards and state-specific incentives for green buildings are notable examples. Additionally, financial trends indicate a growing interest in green financial products and investments.

Sobha uses materials with recycled content, for instance, industrial waste such as Ground Granulated Blast-furnace slag (GGBS) to reduce the use of cement; procuring locally to the extent possible; ensuring at least 33% of area in all projects are dedicated green spaces and giving importance to local species.

Further, Sobha’s unique backward integration model means it has its own Concrete Products Division; Glazing and Metal Work Division; Interiors Division, and Mattresses Division in Bengaluru. This reduces the pollution associated with transporting materials over long distances. Since inception, Sobha has always focused on the environment across its projects and operations, with the concept of ‘reduce, recycle and reuse’ in-built. All waste generated, be it water or materials, is recycled and reused in projects and factories. This approach limits environmental impact and carbon footprint.

At Sobha we are committed to achieving Net Zero goals as per our country’s commitment and have started increasing our Green Building footprints in many locations.