Green buildings deliver $12 in health benefits for $1 energy

Green certified buildings in India deliver an additional health and climate benefit of USD 12 for every dollar in energy savings, a recent survey said.
According to a study 'HEALTHfx' by the Harvard University that examined LEED-certified buildings in six countries, additional health and climate benefits amounted to USD 12 for every dollar in energy savings in India.
The study has examined LEED-certified buildings in countries like India, China, Brazil, Germany, Turkey and the US.
"In India, LEED-certified projects saved more than USD 72 million in energy costs and reduced greenhouse gases and emissions by more than 800 kilo tons. Nearly USD 900 million in estimated public health co-benefits," it said.

United Technologies Chief Sustainability Officer John Mandyck said, "considering India will be building new floor space equivalent to the city of Jaipur every two years to accommodate expected urbanisation, there is a significant opportunity here and the measurable health co-benefits which is identified by this new research.