'Indian Green Homes market potential set at $15 billion by 2012

29 September 2008

In the wake of global warming and the increase in natural and man made disasters, there seems to be a growing awareness for Green Homes, to play a critical role in averting major ecological crisis.

Highlighting the enormous business potential of Green Homes, Dr Prem C Jain chairman, Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), said, "India can garner 25 per cent-30 per cent of the world wide Green Homes market, which is expected to see about $15 billion investments by 2012". 

Speaking at the recently concluded 'Green Building Congress 2008' hosted y industryu body CII, and aimed at architects and residential developers, Dr Jain said real estate offered a great opportunity for boosting Green Homes in India.

Highlighting the intangible benefits of Green Homes, Dr Kath Williams, past president, World Green Building Council, said "Green Homes contribute to the community at large. They are affordable, sustainable, maintainable and healthy homes".

"Indian ancestors paid special attention to details like adequate sunlight and solar energy while designing their homes," he said. Talking about the traditional Indian homes, Dr Williams said, India's priorities are water and waste management, energy conservation, alternative fuels and valuable resources, amongst others.

"It is important that we learn from our traditions and build homes which will conserve the natural resources," he said.