Guwahati recently hosted the 5th GRIHA regional conclave, organized by the GRIHA Council in partnership with the Assam Science Technology and Environment Council (ASTEC) and the state government. The event, themed “Accelerating Climate Action in the Built Environment,” focused on promoting sustainable building practices.
During the conclave, three publications on sustainable design and construction were launched in Assamese. Additionally, the GRIHA Council signed agreements with the Assam chapter of the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA) and the Association of Architects Assam (AAA) to further advance sustainability efforts.
Keshab Mahanta, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Climate Change, spoke about Assam’s growing role in clean energy and low-carbon infrastructure, especially following the Advantage Assam 2.0 summit. Various technical sessions addressed key topics such as policy implementation and building resilience in infrastructure.
The GRIHA Council, founded in 2007 by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), promotes green building ratings in India. The GRIHA rating assesses projects for energy efficiency, water usage, waste management, and the sustainable materials used. Notably, the Delhi airport has received a GRIHA rating, and Guwahati airport is also in the process of obtaining one.
It’s crucial to note that the construction sector accounts for about 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. To meet India’s net-zero carbon goals by 2070, states must prioritize green building practices. “If homes and buildings are GRIHA-rated, states can significantly cut emissions,” emphasized a representative from TERI.
In the northeastern states, over 100 projects are registered under various GRIHA rating categories, with around 50 located in Assam alone. Important projects include the new terminal at Guwahati International Airport, AIIMS Guwahati, and major developments within Tezpur University, all focusing on sustainable practices.
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urban planning,sustainable infrastructure,GRIHA conclave,energy efficiency,climate action
