In our previous blog, we learned about World Environment Day, its history and significance. This time, we will discuss one of the practical aspects of achieving the goals that this day stands for, that is, Green building. There is no one way to contribute to the environment of course. Small measures like switching off lights when not in use or reusing plastic bags can make a significant impact when implemented by everyone. However, for the purpose of this blog, we will focus on Green Buildings especially in the context of India and its major component- Rooftop Solar System.

What is a Green Building?

A green building is a structure designed in a way that it utilises energy and water judiciously and has a considerably less negative impact on the environment. A green building has an architecture that suits local climate, energy efficient design, effective waste and water management and other technologies that reduce carbon footprint.

Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and Green Building for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) are two green building certification agencies in India, that quantify environmental performance of buildings and rate them on their performance as per standardised criteria.

Some Essential Features of Green Building

Construction

Construction of buildings not only consumes a lot of energy but also pollutes the air by generating dust and particulate matter. Making use of Environment sensitive construction techniques can make a significant impact on the environment and public health. Some measures that can be undertaken during construction or renovation includes

• Using recycled materials
• Avoiding toxic materials like asbestos and paints with lead
• Proper waste disposal
• Covering the construction site to isolate dust

Building design to reduce energy consumption

Green buildings are designed to use as less energy as possible. It involves maximum utilisation of daylight, natural ventilation, use of Solar heaters and using building materials that keep the indoors warm during winter and cool during summer. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning and hence, reduces energy consumption.

Rain Water Harvesting

Due to concretization in urban areas, rainwater fails to seep into the soil and instead evaporates back to air. With erratic monsoon and low water tables, water shortage has become a serious issue in India. Rain Water harvesting system helps in meeting non-drinking water requirements of the household and also recharges the groundwater by draining the excess rainwater underground.

Sewage and Waste Management

Treating waste water generated by the household locally can help reducing pollution of water bodies. Treated wastewater can be reused for watering gardens and other purposes. A biogas plant can convert organic waste generated from the household into biogas which can be used for cooking or heating purpose.

Rooftop Solar System for Green Building

Residents can get electricity from cheaper and renewable source of energy simply by installing Solar panels on the roof. In grid-connected Rooftop Solar System, household draws power from the grid and supplies power generated from solar panels to the utility grid. This can reduce electricity bill by half and ensures power for homes even at night by utilising power from the grid. It also reduces grid’s dependence on electricity generated by burning fossil fuels, hence reducing overall carbon footprint. Installing Rooftop Solar is easier than you think. Ujaas Home is a Residential Solar service provider in India, that takes care of all the requirements for installing Rooftop solar, be it assessment to determine the capacity and type of solar plant needed, paperwork for net metering and securing subsidies, and of course actual installation.

There are many ways, a building can be environment-friendly and it does not need to be heavy on your pocket. Home Solar is not only environment-friendly but also an economic option for households to make savings. This World Environment Day, take the first step to make your house green by installing Ujaas Home.

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