Going green is more an approach rather than aspiring for approval from a system of ratings. If each designer takes this approach, then it becomes a movement rather than a single person’s approach.
Manish Kumat - Principal Architect, MKDC
One simply needs to understand that almost every activity from checking a mobile phone, buying a book, switching on a light, or driving a car ultimately uses some form of energy that stems from fossil fuels. It is sobering to know that fossil fuels have been created over millions of years, yet in the past 150 years we have used 50% of the known supplies. At the present rate of consumption, fossil fuels may dwindle in the next 150 years. 80% of the world’s energy is generated from fossil fuels and 15% from renewable energy. So, any project undertaken should aim to minimize the use of fossil fuels and try to preserve them as best possible.
Sustainable projects save electricity and water. Electricity consumption can be reduced by designing structures in a way to take advantage of natural light and ventilation, using double glazing units, selecting light fixtures that minimize use of electricity, and opting for solar panels. For reducing water consumption, the correct fixtures will optimize water flow; rainwater harvested and an efficient STP installed.
At MKDC, we adopt several eco-friendly measures in our projects spanning reduction of electricity consumption, harnessing natural light and ventilation, minimizing use of water. We use solar panels on rooftops, create green spaces, use DGU glass panels of different types etc. Our office has incorporated these features is the smallest Private Sector Platinum Rated Building in India and have received a GRIHA rating of 5 stars.
