In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards green construction practices and sustainable building. To encourage this important industry trend, the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) offer certifications for developers who undertake green projects. These certifications offer a range of benefits to builders, including environmental conservation, cost savings, compliance with green standards, and increased marketability.
By offering recognition for environmentally responsible construction practices, IGBC/GRIHA certifications serve as a valuable tool for developers who aim to promote sustainable development while reducing the environmental impact of their projects. In this article, we will explore the multitude of advantages that developers can avail of by obtaining IGBC/GRIHA certifications for their green projects, and how it can help drive the construction industry towards a more sustainable future.
Introduction to IGBC and GRIHA: Understanding the Green Building Rating Systems
The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) are two prominent rating systems that champion sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices in India. These systems play a vital role in promoting environmentally responsible and energy-efficient buildings across the country.
IGBC, an initiative of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), focuses on developing green building practices and technologies. It offers various rating systems such as IGBC Green Homes, IGBC Green Factories, and IGBC Green Townships, tailored to specific building types. The ratings are based on criteria such as site selection, water conservation, energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and materials used. IGBC also provides training programs and certifications, ensuring that architects, builders, and stakeholders stay updated on the latest sustainable building practices.
GRIHA, on the other hand, is an indigenous rating system developed by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) in collaboration with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. GRIHA focuses on promoting sustainable practices in the Indian construction industry. It evaluates buildings based on parameters like site planning, water conservation, energy efficiency, waste management, and indoor comfort. With a strong emphasis on local context, GRIHA offers flexibility and encourages builders to incorporate traditional and innovative design practices to optimize resource utilization.
Both IGBC and GRIHA help to create awareness and establish benchmarks for sustainable construction. They provide guidance to builders, developers, and architects, encouraging them to adopt green building techniques and reduce the environmental impact of construction projects. Furthermore, these rating systems contribute to energy savings, reduced water consumption, better indoor air quality, and a healthier living environment for occupants.
IGBC and GRIHA are instrumental in driving the development of green buildings in India. With their comprehensive rating systems and advocacy efforts, they play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable construction, promoting a greener and more sustainable built environment for generations to come.
Access to Green Incentives: Partner with a IGBC & GRIHA Certified Supplier
Using eco-friendly and sustainable construction materials can not only help to save our precious natural resources but also provide a range of benefits for builders. Moreover, if a supplier has certificates like IGBC or GRIHA, there are various government benefits, tax exemptions and subsidies available for such eco-friendly construction projects. These benefits can help in reducing the cost of construction and incentivize the use of green and sustainable building materials. Furthermore, such certificates can improve the marketability and resale value of the construction project. Thus, using eco-friendly building materials and ensuring that they are from certified suppliers can result in a win-win situation for all stakeholders.
Builders who source construction products from a GRIHA and IGBC certified supplier and manufacturer like Magnus Ventures can enjoy several benefits. With certifications from IGBC’s ‘Green Pro’ rating system, Magnus Ventures’ eco-friendly ready made plaster for walls, tile adhesives, and block bonding adhesives contribute to achieving 4 credits which helps us get our clients 11 points/100 for certified green products, local materials, low VOC materials, paints and adhesives, and alternative construction materials. Based on their certification level (Silver, Gold, or Platinum) and number of residential units, builders can avail PMC Rebates ranging from 3% to 7% as per IGBC Standards.
IGBC membership allows individuals and organizations like Magnus Ventures to be a part of the Indian Green Building Council and work towards promoting sustainable and eco-friendly building practices. On the other hand, purchasing products that are IGBC GreenPro Certified confirms that the specific product meets stringent sustainability standards and achieved the GreenPro label after being thoroughly assessed by an independent third party. While IGBC membership is broader, GreenPro certification confirms the eco-friendliness of individual products and allows developers to become eligible for several benefits.
When a builder opts for IGBC GreenPro certified products and falls under the Developer Certification Level, they can achieve distinctions of Silver, Gold, or Platinum. Builders falling under the Silver category, with 45-51 individual residential units or 60-69 multi-dwelling residential units, are eligible for a 3% rebate from the PMC. Those falling under the Gold distinction, with 52-59 individual residential units or 70-79 multi-dwelling residential units, can avail a higher 5% rebate from the PMC. Lastly, builders under the Platinum category, with 60-75 individual residential units or 80-100 multi-dwelling residential units, can enjoy the highest 7% rebate from the PMC. These distinctions encourage builders to incorporate sustainable practices and reward them for their commitment to environmentally-friendly construction.
Similarly, under the GRIHA rating system, Magnus Ventures scores 2 credits which allows us to get our clients 6 points/100 for the use of low-environment impact materials and low VOC. Depending on the percentage of points earned, builders with three-star and four-star ratings can receive PMC and PCMC Rebates of up to 3% to 7%.
By choosing Magnus Ventures as a certified supplier, builders can not only access high-quality eco-friendly products but also benefit from financial incentives and rebates, making their construction projects more sustainable and cost-effective.
Enhanced Marketability and Brand Reputation for Developers with Green Projects
The marketability of green buildings has significantly increased in recent years as consumers become more environmentally conscious and prioritize sustainable living. This has given the developers sourcing products from suppliers with green certifications for their projects a competitive edge in the market. Builders who source products from suppliers and manufacturers with certifications like GRIHA or IGBC for their projects, elevate their marketability and brand reputation to new heights. Collaborating with certified suppliers ensures that the materials and components used in construction align with sustainable practices and meet stringent environmental standards. This not only enhances the overall sustainability of the project but also communicates the developer’s commitment to responsible sourcing and eco-friendly construction.
Buyers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of the products they purchase, and they prefer companies that prioritize sustainability. By associating with certified suppliers, developers can tap into a growing segment of environmentally conscious customers and differentiate themselves from competitors.
Improved Energy Efficiency and Reduced Operational Costs for Green Projects
Green building projects are designed to operate efficiently and with minimal impact on the environment, resulting in cost savings and long-term financial benefits for building owners and occupants. By incorporating energy-efficient design elements, green buildings consume less energy, reducing the carbon footprint and operational costs.
Improved energy efficiency means a drastic reduction in utility bills, adding a significant financial advantage for building owners. Due to the use of features such as insulating walls, roofs, and windows, green buildings reduce heat gains and losses, providing improved thermal insulation and reducing cooling and heating loads. Consequently, mechanical and electrical systems operate with greater efficiency and require less investment in energy. Reduced operational costs also lead to increased profitability for building owners. The use of energy-saving technology not only reduces energy consumption but also minimizes maintenance costs. Moreover, green buildings have a reputation for being healthier and more productive environments resulting in reduced healthcare-related costs for the occupants.
Moreover, the use of energy-efficient and eco-friendly materials in green building projects can contribute to the building’s structural integrity. For instance, materials like Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) provide a durable and thermally efficient building envelope, which can reduce the need for heating and cooling equipment. This, in turn, can lower installation and operational costs and help to minimize the building’s overall carbon footprint.
Health and Well-being Benefits for Occupants of Green Buildings
Green buildings, which are designed and constructed using sustainable and eco-friendly materials, provide numerous health and well-being benefits for their occupants. Non-toxic certified green building materials reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and potentially hazardous substances, leading to improved indoor air quality and a reduction in harmful health effects such as respiratory and skin ailments. The use of natural daylight, ventilation, and green spaces in green buildings also enhances occupant mental and physical well-being. Studies have shown that occupants of green buildings have lower rates of absenteeism, improved cognitive function, and higher levels of job satisfaction and happiness, highlighting the overall positive impacts that green, non-toxic buildings can have on occupant health and well-being.
Environmental Conservation and Reduced Carbon Footprint through Green Projects
Green projects that incorporate sustainable practices and use green construction materials can play a significant role in environmental conservation and reducing carbon footprints. By reducing dependency on fossil fuels and incorporating renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, green projects can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to mitigating climate change. The use of green construction materials reduces waste generation during construction and represents a step towards a circular economy. Also, by optimizing the use of available materials, energy consumption can be reduced, which increases energy efficiency and enhances long-term environmental benefits. Green projects that incorporate green construction materials demonstrate a commitment to creating a more sustainable built environment, preserving natural resources, and reducing the impact of human development on the environment.
In today’s time, where environmental concerns are at the forefront, making sustainable choices is crucial to ensure a greener future. One such wise decision is to choose a supplier or manufacturer who provides eco-friendly construction materials like Magnus Ventures. Opting for green materials not only benefits the environment but also offers a range of advantages for builders and developers. By using eco-friendly construction materials, you can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your project and promote sustainable building practices. Moreover, it can serve as a great start towards creating your own GRIHA certified building. Take the first step, get associated with Magnus Ventures and learn about how these products are not only sustainable and commercially viable, but can get you several advantages.
