Pune’s Net-Zero building paving the way for climate action

Pune paints a promising picture of commitment to tackling climate change through net-zero building design.

(Construction week)

By implementing innovative strategies and addressing existing challenges, Pune can pave the way for a more sustainable future for the construction industry in India.

Pune Metropolitan Region (PMR) aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, making it a leader in climate action within India. The construction sector is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, and Pune is focusing on decarbonization strategies for both new and existing buildings.

Strategies for Net-Zero Buildings:

  • Green Building Certifications: Adopting certifications like LEED Zero and Eco Niwas Samhita can reduce operational carbon by 45-60%.

  • Energy Conservation Building Codes: Implementing codes like ECBC 2017 for commercial projects helps in energy efficiency.

  • Green Materials: Utilizing low-embodied carbon materials like fly ash and recycled content can reduce embodied carbon by 20%.

  • Advanced Materials: Incorporating innovative materials with low embodied energy can further decrease embodied carbon by up to 40%.

Retrofitting existing buildings is crucial to achieving net-zero goals, but it presents challenges like higher costs and technical complexities. Collaboration between government, developers, and construction professionals is essential for the successful implementation of net-zero strategies. Pune's leadership in net-zero building design sets a positive example for other Indian cities and inspires them to adopt similar sustainable practices.