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LEED ZERO CERTIFICATION

23rd June, 2023

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Context

  • In LEED Zero certified green building projects India got first rank in world in LEED Zero certified green building projects.
  • With more than 70 LEED Zero green building projects, India is a top country according to US Green Building Council (USGBC) and Green Business Certification Inc (GBCI).
  • It is followed by 47 such project certification of USA and only 15 LEED Zero certification of China. 

Other India specific information

  • Out of total 150 India LEED Zero certifications India has maximum of such projects which is 45% (73) LEED Zero certified projects.
  • The two key states which contribute to the achievement of India were Haryana and Tamil Nadu.
  • In context of organizations DLF (a realty firm with 45 certifications ) and ITC (a major player in FMCG sector with 15 certifications) were leading LEED Zero certifications.
  • This achievement will help in keeping on track to reach target of net zero GHG emissions by 2070.
  • Of the total carbon emissions in India, approximately 33% is contributed by building and construction sector.

About LEED Zero Projects and certification

  • LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.
  • LEED provides a framework to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions for high performance buildings and spaces.
  • It outlines various plans and strategies for land use, efficient energy, transportation with low carbon foot print, management of waste and materials.
  • The LEED Zero projects are estimated to be as large as 35 million certified square feet.
  • They projects can belong to various sector including office buildings, Shopping Malls, Factories
  • In order to achieve low emissions target USGBS has developed LEED Zero, to promote, recognize and verify net zero carbon emission goals in already constructed buildings.

Benefits/Significance

  • As buildings play a significant role in carbon Reducing the emission and making them carbon neutral contribute positively to the cause of climate change.
  • It can make Indian real estate sector of India more environment friendly by making construction of building sustainable.
  • It promotes new innovations for better energy efficiency and adopt such best practices.

US Green Building Council (USGBC)

  • It is a membership-based non-profit organization which was founded in 1993.
  • It is Headquartered in Washington, D.C USA.
  • It has developed the LEED green building rating systems.
  • Its main function/work is to transform market through its LEED green building programme.

Green Building Council (GBCI)

  • GBCL was Established in January 2008.
  • It also has its Headquarter in Washington, D.C. USA.
  • In green business and sustainability industry, it is the only body which certifies and administers certifications.
  • Within the framework of USGBC's LEED green building rating systems it also administers professional credentials.
  • There are other certifications too which are managed by GBCL.

Must read Article:

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/green-railway-station-certification

PRACTICE QUESTION

LEED, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Zero certifications can be the key for India to achieve its committed net zero emission targets. Examine. (150 words)

https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/india-tops-globally-in-leed-zero-certifications-of-green-building-projects-123061501200_1.html