Net-Zero Buildings Could Cut India's CO2 Emissions by 8 Gt by 2050: NIUA-RMI Report

A groundbreaking study reveals that implementing net-zero carbon building standards throughout India could potentially eliminate up to 8 gigatons of carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, according to research conducted by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) and Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI).

Comprehensive Research Framework

The comprehensive study, titled "Build Right for the First Time: Scaling Adoption of Net‑Zero Carbon Buildings in India," was unveiled during the "Heat Resilient and Low‑Carbon Housing in India" event held in New Delhi. The research outlines five high‑impact decarbonization strategies that could be implemented across India's rapidly expanding urban infrastructure.

Significant Environmental Impact Potential

The report's findings indicate that net-zero buildings possess the capacity to reduce carbon emissions by 8 gigatons by 2050, which researchers noted is approximately equivalent to three years of India's current carbon dioxide output. The study also revealed that achieving net-zero standards in new constructions may require an additional investment of around ₹4,566 per square metre, though this premium proves cost-effective over the building's lifecycle.

With India's urban population expected to reach 843 million by 2050, the building stock is projected to double, making early integration of low-carbon design crucial for the nation's environmental goals.

Comprehensive Strategic Framework

The report advocates for a whole-system approach that encompasses several key elements:

• Minimizing embodied carbon through strategic material selection and innovative design choices
• Implementing passive design principles and efficient equipment to reduce operational emissions
• Incorporating demand flexibility and renewable energy sources
• Establishing policy frameworks including low-embodied-carbon building codes
• Developing innovative financing mechanisms such as green mortgages and performance-based contracts

Industry Leadership Perspectives

Akshima Ghate, Managing Director of RMI India, emphasized that India currently stands at a crucial technical and infrastructure crossroads, presenting an opportunity to "build right the first time." This timing advantage could significantly impact the nation's transition to sustainable housing solutions.

Satish Chandra Vishnubhatla from Johnson Controls‑Hitachi AC underscored the importance of addressing ground‑level implementation challenges through the deployment of efficient technologies and systems.

Strategic National Importance

The implementation of net-zero building standards aligns directly with India's ambitious 2070 net-zero target and supports the country's 2030 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) commitments. The economic benefits extend beyond environmental gains, generating long‑term cost savings, reducing energy infrastructure expenses, and creating employment opportunities across multiple sectors.

Furthermore, net-zero buildings enhance thermal comfort and energy security, which becomes increasingly critical as India experiences rapid urban expansion. This approach to green building development represents a proactive strategy for urban resilience.

Future Implementation Roadmap

The NIUA–RMI research presents a compelling argument that mainstreaming net‑zero carbon buildings in India represents both a climate-intelligent and economically viable strategy. With relatively modest upfront investments and substantial long‑term returns, the study provides a clear pathway toward sustainable urban development that could revolutionize India's approach to modern construction practices.

The report's recommendations could significantly influence how developers approach sustainable residential projects across India's major cities, potentially transforming the entire real estate landscape.

Disclaimer: This news article is based on publicly available information and research reports. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to verify information independently. The views expressed in this article are based on the cited research and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Ghar.tv. Real estate and construction decisions should be made after consulting with qualified professionals and considering individual circumstances.