Green rating problems

GRIHA, a rating system for green buildings developed by The Energy and Resources Institute ( TERI ), has been formalized as the first national rating system.

EU to certify buildings for energy efficiency from 2006

As per a new directive, the eu will certify buildings for energy efficiency from 2006 onwards. The European Climate Change Programme, established in 2000 to meet Kyoto Protocol targets, has identified the construction sector as providing the largest potential for carbon dioxide emission reduction. Buildings already account for up to 40 per cent of the eu's energy consumption. And southern European countries are buying more air-conditioning units, further disturbing the energy balance.

High risk

Problem: Tall buildings risky in high seismic zones; Status: Hill-stations are getting concretised and growing vertically; Challenge: Use local construction material; regulate traffic

Energy fixing

Bureau of Energy Efficiency says it is likely to meet Plan target. Experts say claims far from truth

Fat of the matter

What does 'healthy oil' really mean? It is difficult to tell. The Centre for Science and Environment studied branded edible oils to understand what companies mean in their claims. It found the science to prove a cooking medium's healthiness just isn't there.

Home truths

Modern houses are suffused with harmful chemicals. One of them is lead, present in paints. It is banned in several countries but not in India.

Leaky roof

Housing policy not driven by welfare Real estate prices have hit the roof largely because of a lack of regulation in a housing sector ruled by speculators.