7. Co-benefits from Buildings and Construction

This chapter assesses the role of the building and construction sector on climate and the environment and the impact of climate friendly policies in achieving co-benefits in Indian cities. The urban climate co-benefits approach may be defined as implementation of climate friendly policies in cities by tackling both global and local environmental problems together while simultaneously contributing to solutions for local development needs. The building and construction sector plays a significant role in creating employment and income and at the same time contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Hence it offers opportunities for climate co-benefits to reduce GHG emissions, mitigate climate change impact and promote economic growth and employment. The slums and informal housing sector require special attention as it is more vulnerable to climate change impact. The chapter has reviewed Indian policies in the building sector which include the Energy Conservation Act 2001, Energy Conservation Building Code 2007, National Building Code, National Mission for Sustainable Habitat, rating systems for green buildings and so on. The chapter provides a brief assessment of the impact of these policies and makes suggestions for strengthening the same.