LEED certified green bldgs' footprint to rise 3 time by 2020

LEED registered and certified green building projects in India are expected to jump three times to 3.5 billion sq ft by 2020, according to Green Business Certification Inc (GBCI).
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a green building rating system.
LEED-certified spaces use less energy and water resources, reduce carbon emissions and create a healthier environment for residents, workers and the larger community.
"At present, about 1.17 billion square feet of real estate is registered under LEED certification in India. This comprises about 2,500 projects," GBCI Managing Director Mili Mazumdar told reporters here.
"We expect that the footprint of LEED registered and certified projects in India will rise three times by 2020," she added.

India ranks fourth globally for green building footprint. The US is at the first position, followed by China and Canada.

On cost comparison with conventional buildings, she said there is no additional cost if energy saving is taken into account.
Majumdar stressed on empowering the green building community boost the footprint.
Established in 2008, GBCI exclusively administers project certifications and professional credentials and certificates within the framework of the US Green Building Councils (USGBC) LEED green building rating systems.
GBCI announced its incorporation in India last year to facilitate its global expansion.