Green Building Construction - Module 1 - Introduction

DLOC-4
GREEN BUILDING
CONSTRUCTIONS
Module No. 1
INTRODUCTION
- Dr. Rohan Dasgupta

3
Module No. Module Name Hours Probable Marks*
1 Introduction 3 10
2 Site Selection, Planning and Design 8 25
3 Water Conservation and Energy Eﬃciency 10 30
4 Green Building Materials and Indoor Air Quality 10 30
5 Green Building Rating System 4 13
6 Green Audit and Green Retroﬁtting 4 12
TOTAL 39 120
Overview of Syllabus
*Disclaimer: Probable marks is calculated on the basis of hours assigned. The actual marks distribution maybe different.

Environmental
Impact of
Buildings

Environmental Impact of Buildings
Building construction has a signiﬁcant environmental impact, encompassing various aspects from
resource extraction to waste generation. Here's a detailed breakdown of the environmental impact
of building construction:
● Resource Extraction: Construction requires the extraction of vast amounts of natural
resources, including timber, minerals, aggregates (such as sand, gravel, and stone), and fossil
fuels. These extraction processes can lead to deforestation, habitat destruction, soil erosion,
and the depletion of non-renewable resources.
● Energy Consumption: Construction activities consume substantial amounts of energy. This
includes energy required for manufacturing construction materials (e.g., cement, steel, glass),
transportation of materials to the construction site, and the operation of construction
machinery and equipment. The energy generation process often involves the burning of fossil
fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
6

Environmental Impact of Buildings contd…
● Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Construction activities contribute to the emission of greenhouse
gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).
Cement production, in particular, is a major source of CO2 emissions due to the chemical
reactions involved in the manufacturing process. Additionally, transportation of materials and
equipment releases GHGs.
● Water Consumption: Construction requires signiﬁcant water usage for material production,
site preparation, and construction activities. High water consumption can strain local water
sources, especially in areas prone to water scarcity or droughts. Furthermore, water runoff
from construction sites can carry sediment, pollutants, and construction chemicals,
impacting water quality in nearby rivers and streams.
7

● Waste Generation: Construction generates substantial amounts of waste, including
demolition debris, packaging materials, excess construction materials, and site clearance
waste. Improper disposal of construction waste can result in landﬁll accumulation, soil and
water pollution, and habitat degradation. Minimizing waste and promoting recycling and
proper waste management practices are essential to mitigate these impacts.
● Habitat Destruction and Biodiversity Loss: Construction activities often lead to habitat
destruction, especially in ecologically sensitive areas. Deforestation and land clearance for
building sites disrupt natural ecosystems, displacing or destroying plant and animal species.
Loss of biodiversity can have far-reaching ecological consequences, impacting ecosystem
services and disrupting the balance of local ecosystems.
8

● Water and Air Pollution: Construction sites can generate air and water pollution due to the
release of dust, particulate matter, and construction-related chemicals. Dust and particulate
matter can contribute to respiratory problems, while chemical pollutants can contaminate
soil, groundwater, and surface water bodies, affecting both human and ecosystem health.
● Urban Heat Island Effect: The construction of dense urban areas with buildings, roads, and
concrete surfaces can contribute to the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon causes
cities to become signiﬁcantly hotter than surrounding rural areas due to the absorption and
re-emission of heat by urban structures. Increased energy demand for cooling exacerbates
the environmental impact.
9

● Buildings account for approximately 40% of global energy consumption.
○ (Source: International Energy Agency)
● Construction activities consume around 11% of global energy-related CO2 emissions.
○ (Source: United Nations Environment Programme)
● Cement production alone is responsible for about 8% of global CO2 emissions.
○ (Source: Global Cement and Concrete Association)
● The construction industry contributes to approximately 23% of total global CO2 emissions.
● Construction and demolition waste account for about 30% of total waste generated globally.
○ (Source: World Bank)
● In the United States, construction and demolition waste generated in a year can exceed 500
million tons.
○ (Source: Environmental Protection Agency)
10

● Construction activities consume around 12% of the world's freshwater resources.
● On average, the construction of a new house requires about 4,500 gallons (17,000 liters) of
water.
○ (Source: U.S. Green Building Council)
● Construction is responsible for the loss of around 13 million hectares of forests each year.
○ (Source: Global Forest Resources Assessment)
● 1 sq. meter of urban land development can destroy up to 30 square meters of natural habitat.
○ (Source: World Wildlife Fund)
● Urban areas can be up to 10°F (5.6°C) hotter than surrounding rural areas due to the urban
heat island effect.
○ (Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency)
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Concept of
Sustainable
Development

Concept of Sustainable Development
● Sustainable development is a concept that seeks to balance economic growth, social
well-being, and environmental protection in a way that meets the needs of the present
generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
● It aims to achieve a harmonious integration of economic development, social equity, and
environmental stewardship.
13

Concept of Sustainable Development contd…
● Environmental Stewardship: Sustainable development recognizes the finite nature of natural
resources and emphasizes their responsible and efficient use. It aims to minimize resource
depletion, reduce pollution and waste generation, conserve biodiversity, protect ecosystems,
and mitigate the impact of human activities on the environment.
● Economic Prosperity: Sustainable development promotes inclusive economic growth that
benefits all segments of society. It encourages the development of a strong and diverse
economy that provides decent work opportunities, fair wages, and benefits. It seeks to
enhance productivity, promote innovation, and foster sustainable business practices.
14

● Social Equity: Sustainable development places a strong emphasis on social justice and
equity. It seeks to ensure that all individuals have access to basic needs such as clean water,
sanitation, food, healthcare, education, and housing. It promotes equal opportunities, social
inclusion, gender equality, and the protection of human rights.
●
● Inter-generational Equity: Sustainable development takes into account the needs and
aspirations of future generations. It recognizes that the actions and decisions we make today
will have consequences for the well-being of future generations. Therefore, it advocates for
long-term thinking, responsible planning, and the preservation of resources and ecosystems
for future use.
15

● Stakeholder Engagement: Sustainable development encourages the active participation and
involvement of all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society
organizations, communities, and individuals. It promotes collaboration, dialogue, and
partnerships to develop and implement sustainable policies and practices. It recognizes that
addressing complex challenges requires collective action and shared responsibility.
●
● Integrated Approach: Sustainable development emphasizes the interconnectedness and
interdependence of economic, social, and environmental aspects. It calls for an integrated
approach that considers the interactions and trade-offs between different dimensions of
development. It recognizes that sustainable solutions require holistic thinking and the
consideration of multiple perspectives.
16

● Global Perspective: Sustainable development is a global agenda. It acknowledges that
environmental and social challenges transcend national boundaries and require international
cooperation and collaboration. It promotes knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and
ﬁnancial assistance to support sustainable development efforts in developing countries.
●
○ To achieve sustainable development, various strategies and frameworks have been
developed, such as the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which
provide a comprehensive set of targets and indicators to guide global sustainability
efforts. Additionally, sustainable development requires the integration of sustainability
principles into policy-making, business practices, urban planning, resource management,
and individual lifestyle choices.
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19
Concept of Green Buildings
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Necessity of Green Buildings
● Green Buildings are necessary, primarily for the following reasons:
○ Environmental sustainability
○ Energy efficiency and security
○ Water conservation
○ Health and wellbeing
○ Economic benefits
○ Regulatory benefits and Market Demand
21

Necessity of Green Buildings …contd…
● Environmental sustainability
a. Climate Change Mitigation: Buildings are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions,
primarily through energy consumption. Green buildings employ energy-efficient technologies,
renewable energy systems, and sustainable materials to minimize energy use and carbon dioxide
emissions, thus mitigating climate change.
b. Resource Conservation: Green buildings prioritize resource efficiency by reducing energy
consumption, conserving water, and promoting sustainable material usage. They help preserve
natural resources, minimize waste generation, and reduce the strain on ecosystems and the
environment.
c. Biodiversity Preservation: Green buildings consider the impact on local ecosystems and
biodiversity. They may incorporate green spaces, native plants, and sustainable landscaping
practices, providing habitats for wildlife and supporting biodiversity conservation.
22

● Energy eﬃciency and security
a. Reduced Energy Demand: Green buildings optimize energy performance through passive design
strategies, energy-eﬃcient appliances, lighting systems, and advanced HVAC technologies. By
consuming less energy, they alleviate the burden on energy infrastructure and help meet energy
demands more sustainably.
b. Energy Security: Green buildings reduce dependence on fossil fuels and non-renewable energy
sources. By integrating renewable energy systems such as solar panels or wind turbines, they
contribute to diversifying the energy mix and enhancing energy security.
23

● Water Conservation
a. Scarce Water Resources: Water scarcity is a critical global issue. Green buildings incorporate
water-eﬃcient ﬁxtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and greywater recycling to minimize water
consumption. These measures alleviate pressure on water supplies and promote sustainable water
management.
b. Water Pollution Reduction: Green buildings implement practices that reduce water pollution,
such as stormwater management systems and wastewater treatment technologies. This helps
protect water bodies and ecosystems from pollution and promotes water quality preservation.
24

● Health and Wellbeing
a. Indoor Environmental Quality: Green buildings prioritize occupant health and comfort by
improving indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and acoustics. They employ ventilation systems,
low-emitting materials, and natural daylighting to create healthier indoor environments, reducing
risks of respiratory problems and enhancing overall well-being.
b. Productivity and Performance: Green buildings have been shown to enhance occupant
productivity and performance. Improved indoor environmental quality, access to natural light, and
comfortable indoor temperatures positively impact cognitive function, concentration, and job
satisfaction.
25

● Economic Benefits
a. Cost Savings: Green buildings offer long-term cost savings through reduced energy and water
consumption, lower maintenance costs, and increased operational efficiency. They help minimize
utility bills and maintenance expenses, resulting in significant financial savings over the building's
lifespan.
b. Increased Property Value: Green buildings often have higher property values and can attract
premium prices. Buyers and tenants increasingly value sustainable features, energy efficiency, and
healthy indoor environments.
c. Job Creation: The green building sector stimulates job creation in various fields such as
architecture, engineering, construction, renewable energy, and building operations. It supports
economic growth and the development of a green economy.
26

● Regulatory Requirements and Public Demands
a. Regulatory Compliance: Governments are implementing regulations and building codes that
mandate or incentivize green building practices. Compliance with these requirements ensures that
buildings meet or exceed minimum performance standards, promoting sustainable development.
b. Market Demand and Reputation: The market demand for green buildings is growing as
individuals, organizations, and tenants prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Adopting green building practices enhances a company's reputation, attracts environmentally
conscious tenants or buyers, and demonstrates a commitment to sustainability.
27

Beneﬁts of Green Buildings
● Green Buildings are beneﬁcial, primarily in the following aspects:
○ Environmental
○ Economic
○ Social
29

Benefits of Green Buildings …contd…
● Environmental Benefits:
a. Reduced Energy Consumption: Green buildings incorporate energy-efficient technologies, such
as efficient insulation, high-performance windows, and advanced HVAC systems. They significantly
reduce energy demand for heating, cooling, and lighting, resulting in lower greenhouse gas
emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.
b. Water Conservation: Green buildings employ water-efficient fixtures, rainwater harvesting
systems, and water recycling technologies. These measures help conserve water resources and
reduce the strain on local water supplies.
c. Sustainable Material Usage: Green buildings prioritize the use of sustainable and eco-friendly
materials, such as recycled content, rapidly renewable resources, and low-emitting materials. This
reduces the extraction of natural resources and minimizes the environmental impact of
construction. 30

● Environmental Benefits:
d. Waste Reduction: Green buildings promote waste reduction and recycling through strategies like
construction waste management, use of recycled materials, and designing for deconstruction and
reuse. This reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and promotes a circular economy.
e. Improved Air Quality: Green buildings prioritize indoor air quality by using low-emitting materials,
proper ventilation systems, and effective air filtration. This leads to healthier indoor environments
with reduced pollutants and improved occupant health.
31

● Economic Benefits:
a. Cost Savings: Green buildings offer long-term cost savings through reduced energy and water
consumption. By employing energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices, they result in
lower utility bills and operational costs over the building's lifespan.
b. Increased Property Value: Green buildings often have higher property values and can command
premium prices in the real estate market. Buyers and tenants are increasingly valuing sustainable
features, energy efficiency, and healthier indoor environments.
c. Lower Maintenance Costs: Green buildings often require less maintenance due to the use of
durable materials and efficient systems. This results in reduced maintenance and repair expenses
over time. 32

● Economic Benefits:
d. Financial Incentives: Governments and financial institutions provide incentives such as tax
benefits, grants, and subsidies to promote green building practices. These incentives can offset
upfront costs and provide financial advantages to developers and property owners.
e. Enhanced Marketability: Green buildings have a competitive edge in the market, as there is a
growing demand for sustainable and environmentally responsible buildings. Green certifications
and labels can attract environmentally conscious tenants, buyers, and investors.
33

● Social Beneﬁts:
a. Improved Indoor Environmental Quality: Green buildings prioritize occupant health and
well-being. They provide better indoor air quality, natural daylighting, and thermal comfort, resulting
in improved occupant satisfaction, productivity, and overall well-being.
b. Health Beneﬁts: Green buildings reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, pollutants, and
allergens. This leads to improved indoor air quality and can reduce respiratory problems, allergies,
and other health risks among occupants.
c. Enhanced Comfort: Green buildings optimize thermal comfort, acoustics, and natural lighting,
providing comfortable and pleasant indoor environments that enhance occupant comfort and
satisfaction. 34

● Social Beneﬁts:
d. Community Well-being: Green buildings contribute to the well-being of the community by
reducing the strain on local infrastructure, conserving resources, and promoting sustainable
development practices.
e. Educational Opportunities: Green buildings can serve as educational tools to raise awareness
about sustainable practices, energy conservation, and environmental responsibility. They provide
opportunities to educate occupants and visitors about sustainable living and the importance of
environmental stewardship.
35

Thank
you!
@DrRohanDasgupta
36

Green Building Construction - Module 1 - Introduction

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