Extract

This paper reviews the IGBC Green Campus rating system and outlines the essential elements
for understanding the various dimensions of this rating system. This rating system is compared with
some existing international campus rating frameworks (STARS and CSAF), and an attempt has been
made to identify its merits and lacunae to determine the scope for future development. Sustainability is
a high level, complex, and multidimensional concept, especially for higher educational institutions. The
concepts of sustainable development (SD) and practices in campuses help in addressing the issues of
natural resource conservation; good health and wellbeing; and economic vibrancy. In India, the need for
green campuses and SD is increasing manifolds due to its status of an emerging economy with constant
development in the education sector. To adapt to this need, the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC)
has framed a new rating system for campuses. Though this rating system is not solely for educational
campuses, it is an initiative in the direction of SD in campuses. IGBC Green Campus rating system is
designed for both new and existing campuses. The most tangible benefits green campus is the reduction
in water and energy consumption right from day one of occupancy. Intangible benefits of green campus
include health & well-being of the occupants, enhancing air quality & promoting biodiversity, safety
benefits and conservation of scarce national resources. This rating programme is a tool which enables
the designer to apply green concepts and reduce measurable environmental impacts. Though this rating
system is primarily based on the environmental aspect of SD, it also contains some aspects of social
sustainability. The dimension of the economy, education, administration and engagement are currently
missing in this rating system. Though it is an excellent start to SD of campuses in India, it needs specific modification so that the educational campuses can adopt it.

Keywords: Sustainable Development (SD); Sustainable Campuses; IGBC Green campus rating system;
Indian campuses.

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