How Eco-Friendly Living is Becoming a Lifestyle Choice in Urban India?
Curious about how sustainability is influencing home buying decisions for people in India? Join us for the discussion as Shray Verma, CEO of Shray Projects, shares his take on this exciting shift.
India’s real estate market is undergoing a noticeable transformation, and at the heart of it is the growing importance of sustainability. What was once a niche concept is now becoming a key consideration for homebuyers, especially among urban millennials and Gen Z. For many, choosing eco-friendly living isn’t just about doing their bit for the environment; it’s becoming a lifestyle choice—one that reflects both their values and their social status.
This shift towards sustainable living can be traced to several factors. With rising concerns about climate change, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources, more people are becoming aware of the impact their homes have on the environment. In densely populated cities like Delhi, where air quality is often hazardous, homebuyers are increasingly prioritizing properties that come equipped with air purification systems and ample green spaces. These features not only promise a healthier living environment but have also started to become a marker of luxury and sophistication. As Shray Verma, CEO of Shray Projects, one of the leading real estate firms in North India, puts it, “Green living is becoming more than just an environmentally conscious decision—it’s now a statement of lifestyle. People are looking for homes that represent their commitment to sustainability, and it’s quickly becoming a key factor in real estate decisions.”
The Appeal of Green Homes
The growing demand for sustainable homes isn’t just a passing trend. As environmental awareness continues to rise, more and more people are actively seeking out homes that minimize their carbon footprint. This is especially true in cities like Pune and Hyderabad, where solar-powered homes and energy-efficient buildings are gaining popularity. But what’s driving this demand? For starters, eco-friendly homes come with long-term savings. Energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and solar panels may require an initial investment, but they significantly reduce electricity bills and maintenance costs over time. As Shray explains, “Homebuyers are realizing that while sustainable homes may cost a bit more upfront, the savings in energy costs and the increased value of the property make them a smart investment for the future.”
This shift in preferences can be seen as urban millennials in India consider sustainability features to be one of the top priorities when purchasing a home. Social media has played a huge role in amplifying this trend, with influencers and celebrities showcasing their eco-friendly homes, making green living not just responsible but fashionable too.
In addition to energy savings, green building certifications have become an important factor for buyers looking for eco-friendly properties. Certifications from bodies like the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and GRIHA are not only symbols of sustainability but also offer concrete benefits, such as reduced energy consumption and lower operating costs.
“Green building standards have really taken off in India, especially in metro cities,” says Shray. “In places like Bangalore, we’re seeing IGBC-certified buildings offering 20-30% savings in energy costs compared to conventional buildings, and this makes them highly attractive to homebuyers.”
These certifications have become a hallmark of quality in the real estate market, with more developers striving to meet these standards to attract environmentally conscious buyers. In cities like Delhi NCR and Hyderabad, the demand for green-certified buildings has surged, as they offer buyers not only a sustainable lifestyle but also long-term financial benefits.
A Nod to Tradition
While energy efficiency is a crucial aspect of sustainable homes, there’s also a growing emphasis on the materials used in construction. Developers are increasingly opting for sustainable, locally sourced materials, which help reduce the carbon footprint of a building. For instance, in regions like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, bamboo and compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEB) are being used as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional building materials. “Using local materials not only reduces environmental impact but also reconnects us with India’s rich architectural heritage,” Shray points out. “In luxury eco-resorts in Kerala, bamboo, which was once considered a basic material, is now being used as a premium option for sustainable construction. This not only helps the environment but also supports local economies.”
The Popularity of Green Spaces in Urban Living
Sustainability in real estate isn’t just about the homes themselves; it’s also about how they integrate with the surrounding environment. Urban green spaces have become increasingly important for homebuyers who want to escape the concrete jungle and live closer to nature. In cities like Gurugram, developments like the Biodiversity Park have proven the value of green spaces. Since its opening in 2019, property values in the area have risen by 25-30%, with homebuyers willing to pay a premium for the chance to live near parks and open spaces.
In cities like Mumbai, where space is at a premium, developers are finding innovative ways to incorporate green living into urban spaces. Vertical gardens and rooftop farms are becoming common features in new developments, offering residents the opportunity to grow their own produce or simply enjoy a bit of greenery amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.“In Mumbai, initiatives like ‘Terraces Alive’ have transformed over 100 building rooftops into green spaces, which is not only good for the environment but also improves the quality of life for residents,” he shares.
Smart, Sustainable, and Net-Zero
As the demand for sustainable living grows, the future of Indian real estate is moving toward even more advanced and eco-friendly developments. The next big trend is smart, net-zero buildings that produce as much energy as they consume. One standout example is Mahindra World City in Chennai, which is India’s first integrated township to receive certification under the IGBC Green Cities rating. With smart grids, waste-to-energy plants, and IoT-enabled resource management, it represents the future of real estate in India.
“Net-zero buildings are not just about saving energy; they’re about creating a sustainable living environment that benefits everyone,” Shray says. “These buildings are designed with the future in mind, and they’re becoming more and more attractive to buyers who want to make a positive impact.” In a rapidly urbanizing country like India, sustainable real estate isn’t just a choice—it’s becoming a necessity. As more homebuyers embrace eco-friendly living, it’s clear that the future of real estate will be shaped by sustainability.
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