Rajinder Singh Mann
I have believed all my life that, Development is quintessential for upliftment of the living standards & infrastructure in whole! But, while holding on to this thought, I have been consistently worried about the impact of our raised standards on the natural habitats & the valuable aspects of nature. While being raised up in the farmlands of Punjab State in India, I have spent my almost entire childhood encircled within the green fields but today development at the cost of natural destruction, is not I would not like to advocate.
Q. What is your inference of the term Sustainable Real Estate Development?
Real Estate Development is so much more than just building structures. Regardless of the Location, Town, City in which the Development is happening, for the real estate development to be sustainable it should be environmental friendly, socially responsible & economically viable. In my understanding, I weigh a Real Estate Development Project to be sustainable when it utilized energy-efficient practices, adopting water conservative techniques and several other environmental friendly aspects. Moreover, from the Market Trends POV, there's a growing in market demand for sustainable living spaces so these developments can be economically viable as well. I, Rajinder Singh Mann, believe that focusing on sustainability not only benefits the planet but also provides a competitive edge in the real estate market.
Q. How do you promote the concept of Sustainable Real Estate Development in your Projects?
There are several key strategies we use to make our real estate projects more sustainable. First and foremost, we try to source our building materials locally. This not only supports local businesses but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting materials over long distances. We also focus on using recycled and renewable materials, which helps to minimize waste and reduce the environmental impact of our projects.
Another major area of focus for us is energy efficiency. We incorporate advanced insulation techniques and install energy-efficient windows to help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures without over-relying on heating and cooling systems. This not only makes the buildings more sustainable but also helps occupants save on energy bills. We also utilize renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, which can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of our buildings.
Water conservation is another crucial aspect of our sustainability efforts. We install low-flow fixtures in all our properties to reduce water usage. Additionally, we implement rainwater harvesting systems, which collect and store rainwater for use in irrigation and other non-potable applications. This helps to reduce the demand on local water supplies and promotes more efficient water use.
Beyond these technical measures, we also focus on the broader context of our projects. We design our developments to be well-integrated into the community, ensuring they are walkable and have easy access to public transportation. This reduces the need for residents to rely on cars, which in turn reduces traffic congestion and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. By creating pedestrian-friendly environments and promoting the use of public transit, we help foster healthier, more sustainable communities.
Q. What is your advice to the new & aspiring Real Estate Developers?
As a seasoned real estate developer in Canada, I've witnessed the industry's evolution toward greater sustainability. New builders entering the field have a unique opportunity to shape a more sustainable future. Here are some essential strategies and practices to help them maintain sustainability in real estate projects.
Embrace Green Building Standards through certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). These standards will not only ensure environmental sustainability but will also enhance project's marketability and their appeal to the eco-conscious buyers.
Prioritizing Energy Efficiency by investing in Renewable Energy sources like solar panels and geothermal heating.In Canada, where winters can be harsh, ensuring your buildings are well-insulated and energy-efficient is crucial. This not only lowers energy costs but also reduces your project's carbon footprint.
Utilizing sustainable materials such as reclaimed wood, recycled steel, and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints are excellent options. Using locally sourced materials reduces transportation emissions and supports local economies. Additionally, consider materials that are easy to maintain and have a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.
Conserving water by incorporation low-flow fixtures, dual-flush toilets, and efficient irrigation systems in their designs, new real estate developers can change their development game. Rainwater harvesting systems can collect and store rainwater for non-potable uses like landscaping and toilet flushing. Greywater recycling systems, which reuse water from sinks and showers for irrigation, can also significantly reduce water consumption.
By making our developments sustainable, we can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve natural resources, and improve the quality of life for residents.
