Navigating India's Heat Crisis with Sustainable Architecture
By
Emmanuel Joster Ssenjovu

Over the past few decades, India has experienced dramatic and scorching heat waves. This extreme heating brings forth discomfort to the people and claims lives of over thousands. When the heat becomes unbearable, many turn to air conditioners (ACs) for relief - this is a sustainability challenge.

Although they provide a respite from the heat, air conditioners pose a threat to sustainability. Leakage of refrigerants release harmful gases and on-top, these AC's contribute significantly to energy consumption. It's a cycle – the more ACs used, the hotter the planet is likely to get.

This is where sustainable architecture steps in. According to the IPCC, embracing sustainable buildings can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in countries like India. These eco-friendly structures not only combat climate change but also offer a way to lift millions out of energy poverty.

India has a golden opportunity to leverage sustainable architecture. Given her growing economy and the need for cooling solutions, embracing sustainable buildings aligns with both environmental responsibility and economic growth.

Sustainable buildings aren't just good for the environment; they're excellent for the economy too. According to UNEP, investing in retrofits and efficiency measures in construction creates jobs and offers significant returns on investment.

For this to be achieved, the government must play a crucial role in steering the shift towards sustainability for her people. Policies promoting energy-efficient constructions and incentivizing green practices could pave the way for a greener, cooler future.

However, to real impact requires collective effort. National and sub-national governments, businesses, investors, private and development banks, and citizens must work together to promote sustainable building practices. The benefits extend beyond personal comfort – they're essential for the planet's well-being.

India's heat crisis requires a shift towards sustainable architecture. It's not just about staying cool; it's about ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

References:
[1]https://edition.cnn.com/2024/01/06/india/extreme-heat-india-climate-ac-intl-hnk/index.html

[2]https://www.unep.org/topics/cities/buildings-and-construction/sustainable-buildings

[3]https://www.preventionweb.net/news/why-indias-heatwaves-are-getting-hotter