35% of real estate launches in 2024 were green-certified, up from 12% in 2020, claims consultant firm

By A Representative

As the world observes World Environment Day under the theme “Ending Plastic Pollution,” the conversation around sustainability has moved beyond policy discussions to on-ground transformation. The real estate sector is emerging as a crucial driver of this change.

With more than 430 million tonnes of plastic produced annually worldwide, much of it ending up in landfills and oceans, industries across the board are being challenged to rethink their impact. Among them, real estate holds a unique position—contributing close to 40% of global carbon emissions but also possessing the ability to reverse that trend through sustainable development.

India, one of the fastest-growing real estate markets globally, carries an even greater responsibility. As the country prepares to urbanize more than 400 million people by 2050, the infrastructure being built today will define the carbon footprint of tomorrow, placing Indian developers at the center of the climate conversation.

Encouragingly, many have already begun integrating green building practices, embracing certifications such as IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) and EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) while committing to nature-positive urbanism.

According to Knight Frank India, more than 35% of new real estate launches in 2024 were green-certified, a sharp rise from just 12% in 2020.

Among the key voices driving this transformation is Signature Global, one of India’s leading real estate brands. Known for its focus on mid-income and premium housing, the company has placed sustainability at the core of its operations.

Lalit Aggarwal, Co-founder and Vice-Chairman of Signature Global, said, “Green has been our priority and focus since inception. In 2025, we are intensifying our Go Green vision by planting 25,000 trees across Gurugram and our project sites. Most of our developments are either IGBC or EDGE certified. Sustainability is not an afterthought—it’s embedded in our design, planning, and execution. As developers, we have a responsibility to build not just for the present, but for the planet.”

Signature Global’s roadmap includes smart water and energy management systems, the use of rainwater harvesting as standard infrastructure, and a commitment to reducing plastic and construction waste across all project sites. The company has also aligned its practices with India’s national climate goals and global ESG frameworks, reinforcing its position as a green-first developer.

The global real estate sector is undergoing a transformation. A recent McKinsey study confirmed that companies actively adopting ESG practices not only contribute to climate resilience but also enjoy higher long-term returns and investor confidence. The built environment, according to the International Energy Agency, holds the potential to deliver more than 20% of the emissions reductions needed to keep global warming below 1.5°C. As a result, nations are now framing urban development not just as an economic priority but as a climate mission.

Ashok Kapur, Chairman of Krishna Group and Krisumi Corporation, said, “The real estate sector bears a significant responsibility towards the environment, particularly as India’s housing segment accounts for over 30 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. This makes it imperative to embrace practices that support development while fostering sustainable living. As the nation advances towards its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, every industry, including real estate, must play a proactive role in shaping a greener future.”

“At Krisumi, sustainability is at the core of our philosophy. Our projects are meticulously designed with eco-friendly features and sustainable architectural principles to minimize environmental impact. This commitment not only nurtures ecological balance but also enhances the overall living experience for our residents,” Kapur added.

India’s broader vision for the future includes transitioning towards net-zero emissions by 2070, with the real estate and infrastructure sectors playing a defining role. Policy support, such as FAR incentives for green buildings, fast-track environmental clearances, and increasing access to green finance, is helping accelerate this shift. States such as Maharashtra, Haryana, and Gujarat are leading the charge with progressive frameworks that reward sustainable construction.

Looking ahead, the green transformation of India’s real estate sector will be shaped by four major trends: wider adoption of climate-linked real estate financing instruments, the use of AI and data analytics in building energy management, incorporation of biodiversity corridors within large-scale projects, and the circular use of materials through modular construction and recycling.

As the world calls for urgent action to end plastic pollution and reduce emissions, India’s real estate sector is redefining its role—from being a source of environmental pressure to becoming a core part of the solution. World Environment Day 2025 is not just a reminder of the challenges ahead but a recognition of the opportunities to build better.

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