In India, so far, the discussion and policy action on low carbon buildings has mainly focused on reduction in operational energy (energy-efficient buildings, energy-efficient appliances, etc) and meeting this operational energy through on-site or off-site renewable energy. Upfront carbon emissions (caused in the materials production, transportation and construction phases) and end-of-life carbon (carbon emissions associated with deconstruction/demolition, transport from site, waste processing and disposal phases) have not been adequately addressed. A more holistic life cycle approach and circular economy model of production and consumption is needed for a truly low carbon and resource efficient building sector. This session will focus on:

• Introducing to the concepts of life cycle analysis and circular economy
• Case studies on life cycle carbon analysis of buildings and systems
• Challenges in carrying out life cycle carbon analysis in India/ developing countries
• Case studies on innovative low carbon and resource efficient building materials and renewable energy systems to facilitate transition towards circular economy in India