### *Green Building and Its Typical Features*

A green building is a type of structure or building that is designed to be environmentally friendly

and energy-efficient. It uses fewer resources like water and electricity, reduces waste, and
creates a healthy indoor environment for people. It aims to reduce negative environmental
impacts and enhance the health and well-being of occupants.

### *Typical Features of Green Buildings*

1. Energy Efficiency
- Use of *solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal energy*
- High-efficiency *LED lighting* and *smart lighting systems*
- *Energy-efficient appliances* and *HVAC systems*
- Smart *energy management systems (EMS)*

2. Sustainable Building Materials

- *Recycled or renewable materials* (e.g., bamboo, reclaimed wood, recycled metal)
- *Low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and adhesives* for better indoor air quality
- *Locally sourced materials* to reduce transportation emissions

3. Water Conservation
- *Rainwater harvesting systems* for irrigation and flushing
- *Low-flow toilets, faucets, and showers*
- *Greywater recycling systems* for reuse in landscaping

4. Efficient Waste Management

- *On-site composting* and recycling facilities
- *Construction waste reduction strategies* (reuse of materials)

5. Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)

- *Natural ventilation and passive cooling* to improve air circulation
- *Large windows and skylights* for natural daylighting
- *Non-toxic building materials* to reduce indoor pollution

6. Smart Technology Integration

- *IoT-based energy monitoring systems*
- *Smart thermostats and automated climate control*

7. Green Roofs and Walls

- *Vegetated rooftops* for insulation and heat reduction
- *Living walls (vertical gardens)* for improved air quality

8. Sustainable Site Planning

- *Urban green spaces and tree planting*
 - *Public transport accessibility* to reduce carbon emissions

9. Resilience and Adaptability

- *Climate-responsive design* to withstand extreme weather
- *Modular and adaptable construction* for future modifications

10. Certifications and Standards

- *LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)*
- *BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)*
- *WELL Building Standard* (focuses on human health and wellness)

Green buildings are key to sustainable urban development, helping reduce resource
consumption, lower utility costs, and improve overall health and productivity.

Sustainable development in green building focuses on designing, constructing, and operating

buildings in an environmentally responsible and resource-efficient manner. It integrates energy
efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, and eco-friendly materials to reduce the
negative impact on the environment while enhancing occupant health and comfort.

The Five R’s of Sustainable Development 🌱♻️

The Five R’s help promote sustainability by reducing waste, conserving resources, and
protecting the environment. They are:

1. Refuse 🚫
●​ Say NO to things that harm the environment, such as single-use plastics and
unnecessary packaging.
●​ Choose eco-friendly products instead of items that cannot be recycled.

2. Reduce 📉
●​ Use less energy, water, and materials to decrease waste and pollution.
●​ Buy only what is necessary to avoid overconsumption.
●​ Use energy-efficient appliances and public transport to lower carbon footprints.

3. Reuse 🔄
●​ Instead of throwing things away, find new uses for them.
●​ Use cloth bags, glass bottles, and rechargeable batteries.
●​ Donate or repurpose old clothes, furniture, and electronics.

4. Repurpose (or Upcycle) 🎨

 ●​ Convert old or broken items into something useful instead of discarding them.
●​ Example: Turn old jeans into a bag or glass jars into storage containers.

5. Recycle ♻️
●​ Process waste materials (plastic, paper, metal, glass) to create new products.
●​ Follow proper waste segregation to help recycling efforts.
●​ Support companies that use recycled materials in their products.

Conclusion 🌍
Using the 5 R’s in daily life helps reduce pollution, save resources, and protect the environment
for future generations. Small changes can make a big impact!

Benefits of Green Building Towards Sustainable Development

Green buildings play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development by minimizing

environmental impact, conserving resources, and improving human well-being. Below are key
benefits of green buildings in promoting sustainability:

1. Environmental Benefits 🌿
✅ Reduces Carbon Footprint – Green buildings use energy-efficient designs, renewable
energy sources (solar, wind, geothermal), and sustainable materials to lower greenhouse gas

✅
emissions.​
Conserves Natural Resources – Sustainable construction practices use recycled and

✅
locally sourced materials, reducing deforestation and depletion of non-renewable resources.​
Reduces Waste & Pollution – Proper waste management during construction and efficient

✅
recycling systems help minimize landfill contributions and pollution.​
Improves Air & Water Quality – Use of non-toxic materials, proper ventilation, and
water-efficient technologies improve indoor and outdoor environmental quality.

2. Economic Benefits 💰
✅ Lower Energy Costs – Energy-efficient appliances, insulation, and renewable energy
✅ Increases Property Value – Green-certified buildings (e.g., LEED, BREEAM) have higher
sources reduce electricity consumption and utility bills.​

✅ Reduces Maintenance & Operational Costs – Durable materials and smart building
resale and rental values due to their sustainability features.​
✅
technology lower maintenance expenses over time.​
Boosts Economic Growth – Green building initiatives create jobs in sustainable
construction, renewable energy, and environmental management sectors.

3. Social Benefits 👥
✅ Enhances Human Health & Well-being – Improved indoor air quality, natural lighting, and
✅ Increases Productivity & Comfort – Better ventilation, thermal comfort, and daylighting
non-toxic materials contribute to better occupant health.​

✅ Strengthens Community Development – Sustainable housing and eco-friendly urban

improve work efficiency in offices and schools.​

planning improve quality of life and social equity.

4. Climate Resilience & Adaptation 🌎

✅ Reduces Climate Change Impact – Lower energy consumption and carbon emissions help
✅ Enhances Disaster Resilience – Green buildings incorporate climate-adaptive designs to
combat global warming.​

withstand extreme weather conditions, such as floods and heatwaves.

Conclusion

Green buildings contribute significantly to sustainable development by balancing environmental,

economic, and social benefits. By adopting green building principles, we can create healthier
communities, reduce resource depletion, and mitigate climate change while fostering economic
growth.

Green Building Rating Systems: GRIHA, IGBC, and LEED

Green building rating systems are frameworks that evaluate the sustainability, efficiency, and
environmental impact of buildings. They provide guidelines for energy efficiency, water
conservation, waste management, and indoor air quality. Three major rating systems used
globally and in India are GRIHA, IGBC, and LEED.
1. GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat
Assessment)
Developed by: The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), India​
Supported by: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India

Overview

GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) is India's national rating system
for green buildings. It helps measure how environmentally friendly a building is by evaluating
energy consumption, water management, waste management, renewable energy integration,
and sustainable materials.

GRIHA encourages the use of natural light, renewable energy (like solar power), and
eco-friendly materials to reduce a building's impact on the environment. Buildings are rated from
1 to 5 stars, with higher stars meaning better sustainability performance. It is supported by the
Indian government and is commonly used for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings.

Key Features of GRIHA

●​ Applicable to new and existing buildings (except industrial complexes).

●​ Encourages passive design strategies for climate responsiveness.
●​ Emphasizes energy efficiency and renewable energy usage.
●​ Focuses on sustainable construction materials and waste management.
●​ Considers socio-economic aspects such as employment generation.

GRIHA Rating System

⭐
A building is rated on a 100-point scale and awarded a certification based on the total score:​

⭐⭐
1-Star: 25-40 points​

⭐⭐⭐
2-Star: 41-55 points​

⭐⭐⭐⭐
3-Star: 56-70 points​

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4-Star: 71-85 points​
5-Star: 86+ points

Assessment Categories in GRIHA

1.​ Site Planning – Environmental impact of site selection and planning.

2.​ Energy Efficiency – Use of passive solar design, energy-efficient lighting, and
appliances.
3.​ Water Management – Rainwater harvesting, efficient plumbing fixtures.
4.​ Waste Management – Recycling, composting, and responsible disposal.
5.​ Indoor Environmental Quality – Air quality, ventilation, and daylight optimization.
2. IGBC (Indian Green Building Council)
Developed by: Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), India​
Launched in: 2001

Overview

IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) – Simple Definition

The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) is an organization that promotes eco-friendly and
sustainable buildings in India. It provides guidelines and certification for buildings to reduce
energy use, save water, manage waste, and improve indoor air quality.

Buildings certified by IGBC use green practices like solar power, rainwater harvesting, and
recycled materials. IGBC certification helps make homes, offices, factories, and cities
environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and healthier to live in.

Key Features of IGBC

●​ Encourages the use of indigenous materials and locally available resources.

●​ Focuses on energy efficiency, water savings, waste reduction, and sustainable site
development.
●​ Promotes green practices like solar power, rainwater harvesting, and better
ventilation.
●​ Encourages the use of eco-friendly materials like fly ash bricks and recycled wood.

IGBC Rating System

🏆
Projects are awarded Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum ratings based on the score:​

🥈
Certified: 40-49 points​

🥇
Silver: 50-59 points​

💎
Gold: 60-74 points​
Platinum: 75-100 points

Assessment Categories in IGBC

1.​ Site Selection & Planning – Environmental impact, soil conservation, and location.
2.​ Water Efficiency – Rainwater harvesting, low-flow fixtures, and efficient irrigation.
3.​ Energy Efficiency – Renewable energy integration and building envelope optimization.
4.​ Material & Resources – Sustainable materials, reuse, and recycling.
5.​ Indoor Environmental Quality – Fresh air ventilation and daylighting.
3. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design)
Developed by: U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)​
Launched in: 1998 (Internationally recognized)

Overview

LEED is one of the most widely used green building rating systems globally. It helps make
buildings energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and healthier for people. It is developed by the U.S.
Green Building Council (USGBC) and is used worldwide. It is applicable to various building
types, including residential, commercial, and industrial structures.

Key Features of LEED

●​ Holistic approach covering design, construction, and operation.

●​ Emphasizes energy efficiency, renewable energy, and smart technology.
●​ Encourages carbon reduction strategies and net-zero energy buildings.
●​ Recognized internationally and used in multiple countries.

LEED Rating System

Buildings earn points based on sustainability performance and are awarded different certification

✅
levels:​

✅
Certified: 40-49 points​

✅
Silver: 50-59 points​

✅
Gold: 60-79 points​
Platinum: 80+ points

Assessment Categories in LEED

1.​ Sustainable Sites – Site selection, land use, and impact on the ecosystem.
2.​ Water Efficiency – Water-saving technologies and stormwater management.
3.​ Energy & Atmosphere – Energy performance, renewables, and smart grids.
4.​ Materials & Resources – Recyclable and low-impact materials.
5.​ Indoor Environmental Quality – Air quality, acoustics, and lighting.
6.​ Innovation – Use of advanced sustainable technologies and innovative design.
Comparison: GRIHA vs IGBC vs LEED

Feature GRIHA IGBC LEED

Origin India (TERI) India (CII) USA (USGBC)

Scope National National International

Certification 1 to 5 Stars Certified, Silver, Gold, Certified, Silver, Gold,

Levels Platinum Platinum

Focus Area Climate-specific, Indian context, use of Global standards,

passive design, energy local materials, energy efficiency,
& water efficiency cost-effective solutions carbon neutrality

Applicability Residential, Homes, factories, Offices, homes,

commercial, institutional commercial, healthcare, hospitals, industries
cities

Recognition India-focused, used in Widely accepted in Globally recognized

government projects India, voluntary

Conclusion
Each green building rating system has its strengths and suitability based on project
requirements:

●​ GRIHA is best for Indian government and climate-responsive projects.

●​ IGBC is ideal for private sector and locally adapted green projects.
●​ LEED is perfect for international recognition and high-performance sustainability
goals.

(EXTRA QUESTIONS)

How to Get Your Building Green Rated? 🏡🌱

If you want to get your building certified as a green building, you need to follow a structured
process under a recognized green rating system like LEED, IGBC, or GRIHA. Here’s a
step-by-step guide to achieving a green building certification:

1. Choose the Right Green Rating System

✅
Different certifications are available depending on your building type and location:​
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) – Internationally recognized,

✅
suitable for commercial and residential buildings.​
IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) – Ideal for green buildings in India, offering multiple

✅
rating programs.​
GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) – Government-backed system
in India, focused on environmental performance.

2. Register Your Project

●​ Visit the official website of the chosen rating system (e.g., USGBC for LEED, IGBC, or
GRIHA India).
●​ Fill out the registration form and submit required documents.
●​ Pay the registration fees (varies based on building size and rating system).
3. Work with a Green Building Consultant
●​ Hire a certified green building expert (LEED AP, IGBC Accredited Professional, or
GRIHA Evaluator).
●​ The consultant will guide you on design strategies, material selection, and energy
efficiency to meet rating criteria.

4. Implement Green Building Features

✅
Ensure your building follows sustainable practices such as:​

✅
Energy Efficiency – Use LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and solar panels.​
Water Conservation – Install rainwater harvesting, low-flow fixtures, and greywater

✅
recycling.​

✅
Sustainable Materials – Use recycled or eco-friendly construction materials.​

✅
Waste Management – Implement waste segregation, recycling, and composting.​
Indoor Environmental Quality – Improve ventilation, air quality, and natural lighting.

5. Submit Documentation & Performance Data

●​ Provide detailed reports, drawings, and calculations to show compliance with green
building criteria.
●​ The certification body will review energy modeling, water usage, and waste
management reports.

6. Site Inspection & Assessment

●​ Auditors from the certification body (like IGBC, GRIHA, or LEED) will visit the
building to verify compliance.
●​ They will check energy systems, water conservation measures, and indoor
environmental quality.

7. Certification & Rating Awarded

 ⭐
●​ If your building meets the required points, it will receive a certification level:​

⭐
LEED – Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum​

⭐
IGBC – Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum​

🌍✅
GRIHA – 1-Star to 5-Star rating
●​ You will receive an official certificate that proves your building is eco-friendly!

Conclusion

Getting a green rating involves planning, sustainable construction, and compliance with
green standards. A certified green building not only benefits the environment but also saves
money, improves health, and increases property value!

Who rates your buildings?

Write about GRIHA, IGBC, LEED.

Green Building Codes: Definition,

Importance & Key Standards
1. What are Green Building Codes?
Green Building Codes are set guidelines and standards that promote sustainable
construction practices to minimize the environmental impact of buildings. These codes
ensure that buildings are designed, constructed, and operated in a way that reduces energy
consumption, conserves water, improves indoor air quality, and promotes the use of
eco-friendly materials.

2. Importance of Green Building Codes

✅ Energy Efficiency: Reduces electricity demand through insulation, efficient lighting, and
✅ Water Conservation: Encourages rainwater harvesting, water-efficient plumbing, and
renewable energy.​
✅
wastewater recycling.​

✅
Waste Reduction: Promotes recycling and use of sustainable building materials.​

✅
Better Indoor Air Quality: Encourages non-toxic materials and proper ventilation.​
Climate Change Mitigation: Reduces carbon emissions and promotes net-zero energy
buildings.

3. Major Green Building Codes &

Standards
(A) IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) Standards 🌿
●​ Developed by CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) to promote sustainable buildings
in India.
●​ Covers residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
●​ Focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, and eco-friendly materials.
●​ IGBC ratings include Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Certified levels.

(B) GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) 🏠

●​ Developed by TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute) and MNRE (Ministry of
New and Renewable Energy, India).
●​ Encourages sustainable site planning, energy efficiency, water management, and
waste reduction.
●​ Mandatory for government buildings in India above a certain size.

(C) LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) 🌍

●​ International standard developed by U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
●​ Focuses on sustainable site selection, water efficiency, energy use, materials, and
indoor air quality.
●​ LEED certifications include Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum ratings.

(D) ECBC (Energy Conservation Building Code) ⚡

●​ Developed by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), India.
●​ Aims to reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings.
●​ Ensures the use of efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and insulation.
●​ Applicable to large commercial buildings and government projects.

(E) National Building Code of India (NBC 2016) 🏗️

●​ Provides safety and sustainability guidelines for all types of buildings in India.
●​ Includes sections on energy efficiency, water management, and waste disposal.