The Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M) has been accorded the ‘Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Platinum Certification,’ recognizing it as one of the country’s largest and highest -rated green campuses to attain this honour. The Platinum Certification indicates that the Institute demonstrated exceptional resource efficiency and environmental responsibility. This not only reduces operational costs, but also conserves valuable resources. IIT Madras recorded an impressive score of 82 out of 90 points. The ‘IGBC Green Campus’ is a rating system and certification program developed by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to promote sustainable and environment-friendly practices in educational institutions and corporate campuses in India. IIT-Madras has also established a Solid Waste Incinerator facility with the capacity to process two tons of mixed waste per day that otherwise goes out for landfilling. The facility, inaugurated by IIT-M Director Prof.V.Kamakoti, demonstrates the Institute’s commitment towards achieving a sustainable ‘Zero Waste Discharge’, a press release from IIT-Madras said on Wednesday. Elaborating on the importance of IGBC Platinum Certification, Prof. Ligy Philip, Dean (Planning), IIT-Madras, said, it evaluates campuses on various parameters emphasizing resource efficiency, environmentally responsible design and enhanced indoor environmental quality.
Sustainable landscaping, transportation options and a strong focus on awareness and education are integral parts of this initiative. The Green Campus certification not only leads to long-term cost savings, but also enhances the reputation of institutions, attracting environmentally conscious individuals, Prof Ligy Philip said. Furthermore, it contributes to a sustainable future by addressing environmental challenges such as climate change and resource depletion, emphasizing responsible resource management and stewardship for current and future generations, he added. Prof. Ligy Philip, also a faculty in the Department of Civil Engineering (Environmental Engineering Group), said what makes the achievement laudable is that IIT Madras is also one of the largest campuses in the country–spanning 611 acres to have achieved this feat. This recognition underscores the Institutes’ commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible campus development.
This recognition serves as a benchmark for other institutions to follow suit in adopting green practices. The release said according to a comprehensive digital twin analysis performed by Earthonomic Engineers, IIT-M stands as a remarkable example of mitigating the urban heat island effect in Chennai. The extensive forest cover on the campus plays a crucial role in counteracting this phenomenon, making the campus consistently 3-5 degrees cooler than the rest of the city. This cooling effect highlights the significant environmental advantages of green spaces within urban areas.