GREEN BUILDINGS: THE NEED OF THE HOUR

Buildings not only provide us shelter but also protect us from nature’s extremes. However, the buildings have adverse effects on human health and the environment during their life cycle. As the environmental issues are gaining importance, the concept of green building design is also gaining momentum. Green buildings are those structures that make use of processes which are environmentally accountable and resource economical throughout a building’s life cycle. Selection of the right materials can make a significant contribution to the reduction of the greenhouse gases and the use of energy without adding any significant costs to the construction of the building. The construction of conventional buildings involves usage of energy generated by burning of fossil fuels. Thus, there is an urgent need to replenish and conserve our natural resources. Green building concept is to increase the efficiency of resource utilization such as energy, water and building materials and to minimize the impact of buildings on the environment and human health. The purpose of the paper is to explore the concept of green building, its benefits and how it will be a step forward in contributing to sustainable construction, ensuring protection of the surrounding environment and conservation of natural resources. Furthermore, the paper will look into numerous green methods available to develop a green building and the adaptability to the concept.