Small Contributions – Large Impacts

‘Save Water’ – is as simple as it sounds – use of sensor based sanitary fittings, waterless urinals, aerators, dual flushes, good landscape design – apt irrigation system, using indigenous plants, proper grouping of plants, proper measuring and monitoring, use of recycled water, efficient curing during construction, rainwater harvesting, etc. This will lead to saving a lot of water. During construction air and noise pollution are major concerns – covering loose material, use of dust suppression systems, proper barricading, preserving and protecting the landscape, etc. can reduce the pollution. Waste Segregation during and post construction by occupants, treatment of the segregated waste, recycling and reuse of the waste when planned and practiced contributes to sustainability to a large extent. Use of recycled material, recyclable material, local materials, materials with low VOC, Materials with low embodied energy, less carbon footprint have several sustainable benefits. Passive design strategies adopted at the planning stage also have a large impact on the energy consumption – simple aspects such as building orientation, construction method, choice of materials, etc. Such simple and straightforward ways make a substantial and significant positive impact not only on the environment but also the economy and the users, enhancing their productivity. By way of Sustainable construction, the most tangible benefits are the energy savings could range from 20 – 30 % and water savings around 30 – 50%. The intangible benefits include enhanced air quality, excellent daylighting, health & well-being of the occupants, safety benefits and conservation of scarce national resources.