SUSTAINABLE RETURNS: UNVEILING THE ROI OF GREEN ARCHITECTURE
Today, “green buildings” are almost becoming the norm, and almost every project is marketed as being environmentally friendly. However, the problem of greenwashing remains. Adding a green roof or a vertical garden on a building and calling it sustainable often tend to be (quite literally) only skin-deep. While these features might look impressive, in many cases, they don't truly address the core principles of sustainability.
House by the beach
Over the past year at SKDO, I've learned the real differences between sustainability and greenwashing. We design building systems that are meant not only to save our clients money in the long run but also to maximize their return on investment (ROI) with positive co-benefits such as a better indoor environment, energy savings, and adaptability to extreme climate conditions. Let’s explore how true sustainability offers real, tangible benefits beyond the green facade.
The Greenwashing Illusion vs. True Sustainability
In today's market, it's easy to be dazzled by the superficial appeal of greenwashing. Take the automotive sector, for example, a hybrid car marketed as eco-friendly still relies on fossil fuels, offering only marginal environmental benefits. Even a fully electric vehicle, while dramatically cutting emissions and reducing fuel costs, may still rely on “dirty” coal or other fossil fuels to generate the electricity in the first place. A truly sustainable and ZERO fossil fuel initiative would be creating truly safe walkable and cyclable neighbourhoods for short local trips - something that is still a distant reality in many Indian cities.
Greenwashing in architecture often manifests through superficial gestures that create the illusion of sustainability without delivering significant environmental or economic benefits. Examples include LEED-certified structures that fail to implement sustainable practices effectively during construction and buildings that incorporate token green features like solar panels or rainwater harvesting systems primarily for marketing purposes but do not follow through on the maintenance and operations of these systems. Additionally, minimal use of recycled materials and unsubstantiated environmental claims contribute to the greenwashing phenomenon. True sustainability in architecture involves a holistic approach integrating energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable materials, passive design strategies, and a focus on health and well-being. By prioritizing genuine, impactful strategies, sustainable architecture ensures real, meaningful gains for both people and the planet, rather than just paying lip service to environmental concerns.
The SKDO approach:
Locally sourced materials:
Locally produced materials do more than only reduce carbon footprints; they also incorporate the character of a community into the fabric of a structure.
When we use locally sourced products, we are not only making an environmental statement; we are also embracing a place's soul. Whether it's the warm hues of locally quarried stone or the rich textures of salvaged wood, these materials convey echoes of their origins, linking the structure to its surroundings in ways that mass-produced alternatives just cannot.
However, the benefits do not end there. Locally sourced materials are frequently more durable, enduring the test of time and requiring less regular maintenance. This isn't just about saving time and money; it's about investing in a lasting legacy.
Passive Design Strategies
Designing with nature: harnessing wind and shade for natural, passive cooling.
In our pursuit of authentic sustainability, we champion passive design strategies, seamlessly reducing a building's energy needs without complex machinery. Inspired by the enduring wisdom of Tamil Nadu's Chettinad Houses, where verandas and courtyards have naturally cool interiors, we incorporated similar features into one of our projects, enhancing natural ventilation. We are also working on an innovative Passive Downdraft Evaporative Cooling (PDEC) system in a residential building, with the goal of harnessing natural ventilation strategies such as the stack effect to maintain indoor comfort while significantly cutting energy costs. These strategies underscore the essence of sustainability: working in harmony with nature's rhythms to craft spaces that not only enrich lives but also honor our planet's delicate balance. The PDEC system, drawing from traditional cooling towers, utilizes evaporative cooling to maintain indoor comfort levels, markedly reducing energy consumption and operating costs, while seamlessly integrating the efficiency of cooling tower technology into our passive design strategies.
Resilience to Market Changes: Building for Tomorrow's Challenges
Gardens we design today are investments in tomorrow, offering shade, cooling, and beauty that grow in value over time.
In today's dynamic market landscape, sustainability isn't just a trend—it's a strategic advantage. As energy prices soar and environmental regulations tighten, traditional buildings face escalating costs and regulatory hurdles. But sustainable buildings, fortified by energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials, emerge as resilient investments poised to weather tomorrow's storms.
These structures not only mitigate rising energy costs through efficient design but also navigate regulatory challenges with ease, sparing owners costly retrofits. Moreover, they embody a forward-thinking philosophy, setting the standard for cost-effective, future-proof construction.
In an uncertain world, sustainability isn't just a choice—it's a necessity. As market dynamics in the future undoubtedly shift, sustainable buildings stand as beacons of resilience, embodying adaptability, efficiency, and foresight.
Health and Productivity
Mock-up of zero VOC lime plaster from one of our ongoing projects—an eco-friendly way to add texture and character to your space.
In sustainable buildings, thoughtful design choices like using zero VOC lime plaster for walls contribute to healthier and more productive workplaces. Lime plaster is a natural, breathable material that regulates humidity levels and purifies indoor air, creating a more comfortable and conducive environment for occupants.
By maximizing natural light and incorporating non-toxic materials throughout the building, such as low-VOC paints and formaldehyde-free insulation, sustainable buildings further enhance occupant well-being. These measures not only reduce absenteeism but also boost workplace efficiency by promoting a healthier and more enjoyable work environment.
As a result, businesses experience indirect financial gains through improved employee performance and satisfaction. Healthier and happier employees are more engaged, productive, and likely to stay with the company long-term, ultimately contributing to a higher overall return on investment for sustainable building projects.
Sustainable architecture is not just about being eco-friendly—it's a smart financial strategy. By embracing true sustainability, we at SKDO ensure our clients enjoy substantial long-term benefits. While integrating sustainable elements increases upfront construction costs because we are pushing against established norms, our buildings are designed to cut operational costs in the long term, boost health, and prepare buildings for future challenges, based on the premise that sustainability can be a win-win for both the environment and the bottom line.
Invest in sustainability with SKDO, and see how we turn principles for green and healthy buildings into real financial savings over the long term. Let's build a future where sustainability and profitability go hand in hand.
