Intent should always be complimented with action; otherwise it ends up as a futility! Simply saying that 'We are Going Green' won't suffice unless we ensure that 'Greenness' is pushed down the throat, in fact, to such an extent that even a commoner starts contributing towards the welfare of the environment. We have been fortunate that the Indian Green Building Council took cognizance of this imperative and conceptualized a slew of initiatives to promote 'Greenness'! And 'Green Building Congress', a perennial exhibition, is one such notable endeavour!
The 11th edition of the event was held at the Chennai Trade Centre, Nandambakkam, from 24-26th October, 2013. Attended by more than 2,000 delegates and over 100 exhibitors, both domestic and international, the three day event unveiled the latest global trends in green buildings, provided a platform for networking, and opened new business vistas for the industry. In fact, the range of green products showcased at the exhibition was quite vast and left visitors spellbound. From architectural takeaways such as venetian blinds and u-PVC doors windows to thermal insulation offerings such as roof tiles and paint coatings, the product pool was enriching and befitting the Indian requirements.
Apart from green products, the other highlight of the event was a series of conferences and seminars. Dr. K. Rosaiah, His Excellency The Governor of Tamil Nadu, while flagging off the event, remarked, "The concept of 'Green' should reach every nook & corner of the country and every construction should be designed Green. It should become a way of life. The next 10 years will be a decade of integrated sustainable built structures with the upspring of large integrated townships, satellite cities, gated communities, and campuses with multiple buildings.
Mr Jamshyd N. Godrej, Chairman, CII – Godrej GBC, said the most important aspect of the Green building movement in India is that it is a part of larger aspects of sustainability. He added that the solution ahead is not a choice between sustainability or development, rather sustainability and development.
Dr Prem C Jain, Chairman, IGBC, informed that IGBC has inked a MoU with the National Housing Bank for special concessions for homes going green. He said that already there were over 600 million sqft of Green homes and the footprint will multiply manifold, he added. Dr Jain informed that, today India has over 2,235 IGBC registered green building projects with a total area of 1.65 billion sqft, making India one of the top three countries with high footprint.
Mr B Santhanam, Chairman, CII Southern Region, said the climate change has impacted all countries. "The Indian industry is committed to mitigate the environmental impacts, he added. The rise in the number of Green buildings, developments in renewable energy programmes and increase in the manufacturing capacity of green building materials were part of these initiatives", he said.
Mr N K Ranganath, Chairman, Green Building Congress 2013 Conference Committee, said that it was a huge challenge to manage our resources and the environmental degradation would be irreversible if we did not act now.
Meanwhile, during the session on Renewable Energy and Green Buildings Mr Sudeep Jain, IAS, Chairman and Managing Director of Tamil Nadu Energy Development Agency, said that all Government buildings, all Government street light installations and water supply installations have necessarily moved to solar and there has been significant progress in all these areas.
Dr Arun Tripathi, Director, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India, said that the design of a new house or building should be in such a way that all available sources of energy from nature could be effectively harnessed. As the building sector consumes a major share of the energy produced in the country, adoption of the renewable energy would go a long way in reducing the dependence on fossil fuels. The residential sector could use solar water heaters, and solar roof top grid-connected power generation systems. Even the kitchen waste could be converted to biogas and used for cooking or generation of electricity.
Speaking at the Conference on Green Homes, Existing Buildings & Green Interiors, Mr Arun Kumar Misra IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation, Government of India, informed that in the coming 4 years, one million houses across the country to be constructed by the Government would be coming up in different blocks and municipalities. "All these would go the green way by design at the construction stage itself underlined. The finances for greening will be part of the project cost."
Mr Misra also proposed entering into a MoU with Indian IGBC to further build the capacities of the Ministry staff by ways of organising training and outreach programmes. Further, he also called on the need to promote green building materials and technologies and alternative technologies. The Ministry, through the Building Materials & Technology Promotion Council (BMTPC), would also explore the possibility of inking a MoU with IGBC. "The new upcoming Housing Policy would also consider providing non-financial incentives to the construction sector. This would go a long way in promoting green buildings and sustainable development," he added.
Notably, Green Building Congress 2013 was sponsored by corporate giants such as Blue Star, Tata Housing, DLF,Daikin, Carrier, Grundfos, and Godrej to name a few. The event was supported by various organizations such as; CREDAI, AIGMF, ASHRAE, Good Governance India Foundation, Institute of Indian Interior Designers, IFMA, IPA, and a slew of international green building councils including Sri-Lanka, Indonesia, UK, Emirates, Jordan, and Colombia.
Significantly, the participants' profile was quite rich and diversified, and included Architects, Builders & Developers, Corporates, Government Representatives, Educational Institutions, Engineers, Energy Modelers, Electrical Consultants, Green Building Facilitators, Contractors, Green Product / Equipment Manufacturers, HVAC Consultants, Interior Designers, International Agencies, Landscape Consultants, Lighting Consultants, Plumbing Consultants, Project Management Consultants, and Town Planners.
With the green sentiment already reaching a crescendo, we wonder what the next edition of Green Building Congress has in store for everyone!
In exclusive interactions with MGS Architecture, exhibitors acknowledged the new avenues that Green Building Congress opened up for them.
Asahi India Glass (AIS)
He continued, "Nowadays, no building is complete without thermal insulation and AIS offers the most suitable products for this purpose. Time and again, we have proven our credentials as one of the key players in this segment." This year at IGBC, we have had a wonderful experience as our products have generated a tremendous response.
ANI Water Solutions
ANI Water Solutions is an innovative enterprise offering customized and state-of-the-art solutions for the disinfection and treatment of fluids and surfaces. A joint venture of two renowned Swiss clean-tech companies, AquaNetto Ltd. and IMETH Ltd, ANI specializes in treatment of air, water, waste water, and surfaces by means of ultra-violet irradiation in combination with complementary methods of treatment.
During the show, the company exhibited a mobile water kiosk for the disinfection and treatment of water, and the skid-mounted ultra-filtration and reverse osmosis unit for the treatment of brackish or heavily contaminated water. Meanwhile, the other products on offer included Tank-IN/OUT and UV-C disinfection units. Mr. Andreas Kasper, one of the company's Directors, informed, "Our products have generated a lot of interest, but the only drawback is the price-sensitivity of Indian consumers. We are promoting through architects and consultants, and had discussions with quite a number of professionals."
Notably, ANI has set up a manufacturing unit at Pune, and is planning to get it GRIHA certified. "Our USP is that we offer customized 'GREEN CONCEPT' solutions and enter into a project right at the initial stage. These attributes have found takers amongst architects and consultants. We have observed that in India, a lot of architects are concerned about greenness, whereas there are some who prioritise costs over everything else. But we are educating them and this will have positive bearings in the long run."
EMMEDUE /B K Chemtech Engineering
Bangalore-based B K Chemtech Engineering, a leading name in designing and building automated machines and plants in various industrial fields, showcased a new and innovative Advanced Building System called M2 which is the brand name for EMMEDUE of Italy. "It is an innovative and ingenious construction system composed of walls, floors, and roofs made of reinforced concrete with a polystyrene core which insulates the entire building shell. It guarantees complete creation of the building using the system: load bearing walls, floors, roofs, staircases, partitions, curtain walls and insulation panels," informed Mr. Angelo Battigelli, CEO.
According to him, Indians are becoming aware and quite inclined towards innovative and green construction technologies and this will keep EMMEDUE a mass favourite in the years to come.
BPS-Building Protection Systems
Bangalore-based BPS Building Protection Systems Pvt Ltd, which participated in Green Building Congress for the fourth time, showcased Insuladd, a Thermally Insulating Paint Additive, which, when added to paint, results in a cool roof coating with energy savings in the range of 10-20%. According to Mr. Aditya Kaura, the company's Director, "Compliant with IGBC green rating norms, this product has been applied in over 2 million sqft of roof area in India and top corporates have used it."
"We are keen that more companies adopt our products which are not only green but also extremely cost-effective, thereby breaking the myth that going green is expensive. Our alternatives are not only greener but also cheaper." In-fact, Insuladd turned out to be a crowd puller as architects, consultants, and students of engineering and architecture frequented the company's stall and enquired about the product in depth.
"We are in the process of developing a nano glass coating as well, which will allow day LIGHT to enter, but prevent infra red and ultra violet light to pass through. This product is revolutionary and easy to apply internally to glass surfaces at a price much lower than any other alternative with minimal disruption to the workplace," he concluded.
Emerson
According to him, the AC Industry in India is on a threshold of revolution considering the rate at which OEMs are showing keenness to incorporate latest and innovative technologies in their offerings. "Green Building Congress is the perfect platform to gauge this sentiment," he concluded.
Evolve India
The company, which is an EPC contactor, undertakes quality solar projects for rooftops, on-grid and off-grid. "We are into direct selling and cater to hotels, factories, independent houses and villas. We offer PV modules manufactured in Europe, USA, China, and India. All the factories are ISO certified with global recognition in quality certification. Besides, we also offer inverters from Schneider Electric."
Notably, this was the company's first participation in this event. "The experience was good and we were able to get in touch with architects, consultants, and engineers, and apprise them about our USPs such as quality, experience, and timely execution of projects."
Eximcorp
Delhi-based Eximcorp India Pvt Ltd, is a leading importer and distributor of wood and wood panel products derived from certified sustainable forestry. The company markets WBP Birch Plywood, Pine MDF and HDF, Soft Boards in the range of panel products and White Wood (Spruce)- Kiln Dried S4S HT Lumbers. Mr. Kumar, Business Development Manager, informed, "Our products are premium priced, eco-friendly, green rated (FSC), long lasting, fire retardant, and imported from Russia & New Zealand."
He continued, "Currently, we are dealing directly with the end-users and construction companies. The market for these products is growing slowly, but steadily. In our opinion, the popularity of these products depends a lot on the architects' and consultants' will to recommend the same. That's why we are undertaking serious efforts to educate them. Green Building Congress is an ideal platform for this."
SGS
SGS India Pvt Ltd is the Indian arm of Swiss concern SGS a leading testing, inspection, certification and verification agency. At the Green Building Congress, SGS showcased its Green Building Consultancy services such as LEED Facilitation, Energy Simulation, Commissioning, Indoor Air Quality Assessment, Safety Audits, Energy Audits, Thermography Audits, Environment Impact Assessment Studies, and CDM Projects."This time around, we are promoting our green building services, indoor air quality assessment, and renewable energy services. Our main objective is to help companies enhance their environmental reputation, manage risk and increase business efficiency. We are currently present across 32 locations across the country to cater to the requirements of builders, developers, and architects. In terms of green footprint, we cover 20 million sqft, that encompasses 120 green buildings," stated Mr. Shivananda Shetty, the company's Director.
Well, the best attribute of SGS is that it's the one agency where all the services related to green building and sustainable services like, energy simulation, facilitation, third party commissioning, ASHRAE level audits, LCA Analysis, Carbon/Water foot print, Environmental clearance, PMC, MEP, Indoor air quality testing are available. So in a nutshell, SGS is one shop solution for all the sustainable requirements.
In fact, SGS' stall at the Green Building Congress turned out to be a wonderful exponent of its endeavours and it was awarded the greenest stall. "Our stall is based on recycled materials and we are trying to set an example through this. In the future, we plan to launch a training programme for students of architecture and engineering." The stall bagged greenest stall award at the event.
FunderMax
FunderMax, a leading manufacturer of architectural products from Austria which offers high pressure laminates (hpl) for both exteriors and interiors, showcased its various applications. Mr. Niraj Borikar, the company's Regional Head - South & West, informed, "We have been present in India for the past six years and offer internationally acclaimed top-class products. Through this exhibition, we want to reach out to architects, consultants and inform them about the benefits of the FunderMax range. As architects play a major role in convincing the end-users, their knowledge of an architectural product needs to be in -depth."
Significantly, the company has already executed more than 2,000 projects across the country spanning over 3-4 lakh square metres already, and what's appreciable is the support extended by architects and consultants," he said. "Our products," he added, "fetch up-to 6 green points. Though the product is premium, it offers unparalleled attributes which benefits the customers / users in the long run in terms of sustainability and negligible maintenance."
Japeva
Japeva Engineering Pvt Ltd is a leading manufacturer of construction chemicals and building materials. The company's clientele includes builders, developers, power and lighting companies, petroleum companies, and much more. During the show, the company showcased Insulla roof insulation tiles, and Cool Shield cool roof coating. Mr. R.K. Saran Raj, the company's Managing Director, informed, "We develop green products and energy saving materials. Insulla is our latest offering and is based on inorganic and non-conductive materials, which don't allow heat to enter a building. By using this product, energy savings of 30–40% are possible. It's a lime based product, is water resistant, and balances room temperature to such an extent that it nullifies the need of air-conditioning. Honestly speaking, a fan is enough to maintain the internal cool. Insullad is a long-lasting product as it's resistant to acid rain."
He continued, "The biggest shot in the arm for us is that energy auditors are recommending our products and we are promoting through them. Even consultants have shown a liking for these products. Apart from this, we are distributing educational CDs and material to installers and applicators. Since we offer premium products, we believe in thorough impartation of knowledge. Moreover, we are members of the Indian Green Building Council, which is a coveted status in itself!"
Godrej & Boyce
He continued, "We are displaying a miniature model green building and have also mentioned the green appliances that come along such as solar electrical charging point, grass pavers, solar lighting, building integrated photovaltics, rain water harvesting and down take pipes, geo thermal cooling, solar shading device, garden lights, and solar hot water system. Today, it's imperative to share the correct information and portray the true picture to architects and consultants, and through this exhibition, we have been able to do that quite wonderfully."
Kone
Kone Elevator India Private Limited promoted a wide range of new offerings at the Green Building Congress 2013. Ms. Sreelakshmi Menon, the company's Director – Marketing & Communications, informed, "We are promoting energy saving machine, elevator car, car operating panel, and new design samples. By the virtue of being a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, Kone always aims at sophistication, need of the hour solutions, and sustainability."
"KONE," she continued, "has constantly been the forerunner in developing the most energy efficient elevator hoisting technology in the industry. The new offering was launched last year and the response has been very positive."
In-fact, Kone had set up one of the most attractive stalls at the event, wherein visitors were invited to try the new 3D Design application, which literally provides a touch-and-feel experience of an elevator whose interiors can be custom made for clients. "Through this initiative, we want to expand our reach to potential end-users, architects, and consultants."
Owens Corning
Owens Corning Industries (India) Private Limited, showcased FOAMULAR® – extruded polystyrene (XPS) pink foam insulation, which is typically used for roof and wall applications. Mr. Nilesh Sonawane, Leader – BD, informed, "We are a Fortune 500 organization with a production facility in Hyderabad, and are committed towards sustainability and energy efficiency of buildings. FOAMULAR® -XPS is a most suited solution for building envelope due to its unique features of long-term thermal performance and high compressive strength."
The company works closely with various stakeholders including architects, consultants and builders to understand the needs and develop suitable solutions with FOAMULAR® such as external wall insulation of new and existing buildings. "We conduct periodical awareness programs by participating in events organized by IGBC chapters in different parts of the country. Green Building Congress is a good medium to spread awareness, it's a very ideal platform," he said.
According to him, in India there is much scope for robust regulatory framework when it comes to green products. "A lot has been done with various initiatives including BEE's ECBC but still, a lot needs to be done in terms of strong implementation efforts by State governments." he opined.
Sohom
SOHOM's continuous efforts in innovating premium product range such as Bi fold system, Lift & Slide and Large Combo Systems has helped many architects to provide their customers best solutions for thermal, noise and dust insulation. SOHOM's uPVC Doors and Windows do not warp or rot and are fire retardant as well as termite free. SOHOM also provides its customers the comfort and solution by suggesting best suitable options apt to their requirement.
SOHOM participates in events like Green Building Congress where people find information on how they can maintain energy efficiency as well as aesthetic look of their houses.
Thermoshield
Mr. Rajpal U Navalkar (Managing Director), Thermoshield India Pvt Ltd., informed, "We manufacture eco-friendly products for the construction sector such as High Albedo Roof Coatings and Waterbased Waterproofing chemicals, and Paints.
Further we are in Strategic Partnership with Green Build Product, Pune, and promote their range of eco-friendly Synthetic Mortars and Renders.
There is no need of cement, sand, and water, and as a result there are no pre-wetting requirements. These are all eco-friendly attributes. Moreover, the products are applicator-friendly and enable hassle-free installation. Our punch-line is "Apply and Forget It."
The company, which was established in 2001, has a pan-India presence and is now looking forward to joint-ventures with foreign companies. "We plan to forge alliances with Swiss and Australian companies. Talking of India, we have pre-sales team that gives live demos on sites, and educates applicators, masons, contractors, and architects. The sales and marketing team promotes through exhibitions and personal meetings with clients."
Trott
"Our products," he added, "are based on the tongue & groove technology, and therefore, are easily installable, require very less maintenance, are moisture resistant, and come with a 20-year warranty. We recently obtained the Forest Stewardship Council (South Africa) certification for our laminate wooden floors." He further stated that Indians are now opting laminate flooring for master bedrooms and living rooms as well, and this is giving a huge boost to this market. The company is in the process of appointing Channel Partners all over India.
U.P.Twiga
The company, which caters to OEMs, promotes its products through architects and consultants. "We cover more than 20 segments and manufacture according to OEMs' requirements and specifications. Green Building Congress is a vital platform for us that provides an excellent opportunity to get in touch with influencers and decision makers. Also, through this medium, we are able to spread awareness about our products with respect to their green and sustainable features."
Talking of the company's future plans, he informed that, "We are exploring South East Asian markets and trying to extend our reach to the Automobile Sector, and supercritical boilers."
Umicore (VMZinc)
He informed, "We are showcasing our Zinc Panel which is an excellent architectural product for roofing solution products. This exhibition provided a wonderful interaction platform with architects and consultants, and we are really heartened to learn that a majority of these influencers are really concerned about eco-friendly and value-added products. Our speciality lies in our ability to customize products according to the clients' requirements, a trait, which has made us quite popular among builders and developers."
Ishaan Industries
He continued, "Our roofing tiles reduce surface temperature considerably, are easy to install and maintain, anti-skid, stain free, aesthetic, energy efficient, lightweight and durable, and comply with IGBC, TERI, BEE, CPWD, and MOEF. Meanwhile, the paints and putties are low VOC, long lasting, cost-effective, and increase comfort in a building."
According to him, participating in Green Building Congress was a great experience as the company was able to network with professionals, exhibit its products, and disseminate knowledge to clients, architects, and designers.
Wienerberger
Delving into the product details, he informed, "Porotherm bricks are mainly used as infill applications for non-load bearing structures. The main advantages are lightweight, high thermal-insulation, faster construction, and energy conservation. Meanwhile, the Koramic roof tiles, which also provide excellent thermal insulation, are available in six profiles with different colours and finishes. All our products are dimensionally stable and require less plastering, which avoids cracks and results in cost saving."
He continued, "We work very closely with architects, contractors, developers, and builders since these influencers are very much keen on green building materials nowadays."
Methra Industries
He continued, "The appearance is light coloured, and it contains many micro cells that can be clearly seen when looked at closely. The closed cells contribute to the material's insulating properties and its aerated nature. CELL O CON or aerocon blocks can deliver big savings in heating and cooling costs through the life of a building and national savings on electricity due to their thermal mass performance and insulating properties."
According to him, the growing requirement of thermal insulation, as a result of global warming, is pushing the market for CELL O CON. "Architects, consultants, and project developers are finding this product very useful and it's a good sign for us."
