Page 37 - Shelter-April 2024

POLICY REVIEW
also prioritises environmental we analyse the role of
conservation, social equity, government policy, public-
and economic prosperity. private partnerships, and
Energy efficiency is an integral community participation
part, if not the key, of green in the achievement of this
and sustainable buildings[2]. transformational agenda.
Energy-efficient cities are key Through a comprehensive
components of sustainable lens, we aim to clarify the
urban development[3]. essential role of energy-
efficient cities in the promotion
The imperative for energy- of sustainable development
efficient cities in India stems and the development of
from the intertwined crises India’s future urban future.
of climate change, resource
depletion, and urban sprawl. Energy Efficiency in Urban
Urban areas account for Context
more than 60 percent of
global energy consumption India’s long-term low-
and about 70 percent of carbon development policy
greenhouse gas emissions emphasises how important
[4], the need for sustainable energy-efficient cities are
urban development strategies to long-term, sustainable
becomes increasingly urban growth. In addition
apparent. In India, rapid to improving energy and
urbanisation has led to resource efficiency in urban
soaring energy demands, planning guidelines, rules,
exacerbating environmental and regulations, the text
degradation and straining emphasises the integration
existing infrastructure [5]. As of adaptation techniques into
such, the transition to energy- urban planning [3]. Cities
efficient cities emerges with low energy consumption
not only as a response to are essential for reducing
environmental imperatives greenhouse gas emissions,
but also as a strategic promoting sustainable
imperative for ensuring development, and reducing
long-term resilience and energy use[6]. Efficient indicators, which hinders the
competitiveness in the global urban planning plays a key
arena. role in creating sustainable,
resilient, and liveable cities
We explore the key elements that support India’s green
of sustainable urban economy goals[7]. The plan
development, examine the also highlights how important
challenges and opportunities it is to plan, develop, and
faced along the way and manage urban buildings
present examples of case with an emphasis on making
studies from all over the them robust to environmental
country. Furthermore, problems and climate-
April, 2024, Volume 25. No.1 - SHELTER
responsive, for both current
and future projects.[3]. These
measures contribute to
reducing energy demand,
improving energy efficiency,
and attenuating the impact
of climate change on urban
infrastructure.
Overall, promoting energy-
efficient cities is essential
for achieving sustainable
urbanisation, reducing carbon
emissions, and creating
liveable and resilient urban
environments in India. By
integrating energy-efficient
practices into urban planning
and development, cities can
contribute to the country’s
long-term low-carbon growth
strategy and transition
towards a more sustainable
future.
Rapid urbanisation and
population growth, which
increase the demand for
energy and resources, as
well as the generation of
waste and emissions. Lack
of reliable and disaggregated
data on urban energy use,
greenhouse gas emissions,
and other environmental
planning and implementation
of effective policies and
measures[8]. The challenges
of the environment impact
in Indian cities are the high
levels of air pollution from car
emissions, industrial activities
and construction that
contribute to environmental
degradation. An improper
waste management method
35