Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objective: Waste is to be utilised as a resource material to reduce greenhouse gases. Green building concept is based on design efficiency, energy efficiency, water efficiency and material efficiency. Therefore, the objective of the study is to suggest “green index” for the materials which are energy efficient for use in the buildings for sustainable development. Method/Analysis: An empirical analysis has been made for working out “green index” for the building materials based on parameters of energy efficiency, waste content, durability, safety, local availability and maintainability. At present there is no basis on which any material can be classified as “green material”. In absence of green index, material which uses waste during their manufacturing process or containing any quantity of waste are classified as green without any differentiation between two green materials. Findings: “Green index” value of a building material has been suggested based on embodied energy, waste content, durability, maintainability, toxicity and safety during installations, local availability, its recyclability and energy requirements during its use. Lower value is to be given to the materials having lower green value. Various materials using waste like fly ash, construction and demolition waste, and waste wood particles are considered in the study. Suggested “green index” will help one to determine and compare the values of green indices of different materials for selection of most green material available in the market for building construction. Applications/Improvements: Application of “green index” includes in determination and rating of various building materials for selecting most green material. Green index thus would be helpful for rating agencies, users as well as to the manufacturers of the building materials.

Keywords: Energy Efficiency, Green Building Materials, Green Index, Waste