New Delhi: India has successfully retained its position as the third-leading country in the world for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certifications, according to the US Green Building Council’s (USGBC) annual rankings for 2024.
A total of 370 projects across buildings and spaces in India received LEED certification, covering 8.50 million gross square meters (GSM) of certified space.
This consistent high ranking reinforces India’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030, highlighting its proactive approach to combatting climate change and fostering sustainable development through green building initiatives.
The Green Business Certification Inc (GBCI), which manages LEED certifications in India, plays a key role in advancing green construction practices across the country.
China led the rankings with over 25 million GSM certified, followed by Canada, which recorded 10 million GSM.
The USGBC’s annual report emphasises the growing global adoption of healthy, sustainable, and resilient building practices, as countries outside the United States make significant strides in green construction, design, and operations.
Gopalakrishnan Padmanabhan, Managing Director of GBCI Southeast Asia & Middle East, commented: “India’s achievement of 370 LEED-certified projects in 2024 is a testament to the nation’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development and climate action.”
He further said that with 8.50 million GSM of green-certified space, India is not only meeting the increasing demand for sustainable urban infrastructure but also advancing toward the UN’s SDGs for 2030.
As India continues to expand its urban footprint, the widespread adoption of green building practices will play a crucial role in improving community well-being and mitigating climate change. India’s dedication to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 further cements its position as a leader in the global sustainability movement, Padmanabhan added.
India’s expanding real estate market is increasingly embracing sustainability, with LEED certifications extending beyond commercial spaces to encompass industrial, residential, and educational sectors.
This shift reflects the country’s firm commitment to meeting its net-zero emissions targets and sustainable growth goals.
As LEED continues to evolve, India remains at the forefront of global green building practices, setting an example for other nations to prioritise sustainability in their built environments.
This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the LEED rating system, which was launched by USGBC in 2000. Since its inception, LEED has become the world’s most widely adopted green building programme, setting the standard for sustainable, resilient, and efficient buildings.
USGBC is currently finalising the next version of the system, LEED v5, which is set to be released later this year, incorporating feedback from the global community.
