A Comprehensive Study on the Environmental Features of Green Buildings in Dhaka, Bangladesh: Prospects, Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

Abstract

The construction industry has played a significant role in causing environmental degradation, primarily due to its substantial energy use. Adopting green buildings is gaining momentum as a sustainable solution for mitigating environmental challenges. In this study, several environmental features of green buildings in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh were assessed along with challenges faced and mitigation strategies recommended. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification technique is widely acknowledged and globally implemented as the leading green certification standard. Two LEED versions - version 3 (v3) for new construction and major renovations and version 4 (v4) for building design and construction were considered. Seven environmental features of two versions namely rainwater harvesting, renewable energy, enhanced commissioning, optimum energy performance, construction waste management, water use reduction, and water-efficient landscaping were investigated in this work. A survey questionnaire was prepared to receive information about these LEED certified (or applied for certification) buildings. Despite satisfactory responses for several environmental features, the survey found that renewable energy integration remains challenging for all the buildings. Solar energy, a form of renewable energy, should be extensively employed to enhance energy utilization efficiency, reduce energy demand, and minimize environmental impact. It was suggested that few challenges including government apathy, financial incentives, investor hesitation, and knowledge gaps must be overcome to create a truly green building market in Bangladesh. Bridging this disparity requires policy reforms, public awareness, industry development, and capacity building. Focusing on these areas may create a sustainable built environment that boosts economic and environmental benefit. This study provides a basic understanding of green building situation and guides future research and policy initiatives to accelerate Bangladesh's commitment to sustainable development goals.