Low flow water fixtures, sensor-based faucets and dual flush toilets reduce water consumption, resulting in potable water savings of over 45%. The entire landscaping irrigation water requirement is met through on-site treated recycled water. It also uses a highly efficient irrigation system. The parking surfaces are covered with hollow grass-crete pavers to allow water to percolate back into the ground. This helps in reducing the storm water runoff and the heat island effect caused due to concrete surfaces.
The exterior lighting is full cut off fixtures with no up light to avoid light pollution at night. This reduces the impact on the nocturnal environment and improves night time visibility along with night sky access due to reduced sky glow.
Electric vehicle charging stations have been provided along with preferred parking to encourage use of electric vehicles. There is substantial amount of reduction in artificial lighting load due to the central courtyard, which also helps in keeping the premises cooler.
The project’s avowal of numerous green features has helped it achieve LEED Platinum rating.
Ar. Suraj Shah, Green Footprints
In the interiors, low VOC emitting paints, adhesives, sealants and carpets have been used, along with bio-degradable chemicals for housekeeping. Materials with high recycled content like flyash blocks, flyash-based concrete, steel, etc, and locally manufactured materials used in the construction have helped in reducing the environmental impact caused by extraction of virgin materials and transportation.
