International Conference on Development of Environmentally Sustainable and Inclusive Architecture
2nd & 3rd August 2018
CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
Convenor Prof Dr Bipasha Kumar
Editor Ar Kamini Singh
Organised by School of Architecture Galgotias University G B Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
I n t e r n ational Conference on Development of Environmentally Sustainable and Inclusive Architecture 02 – 03 Aug 2018 School of Architecture Galgotias University Uttar Pradesh
Copyright© (2018) by Galgotias University All rights reserved. Proceedings of the International Conference on Development of Environmentally Sustainable and Inclusive Architecture Held at School of Architecture, Galgotias University, G B Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India 2nd-3rd August 2018 No part of this online publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior permission The authenticity of the information (textual and visual) contained in the articles is the sole responsibility of the contributing authors. Publishers are not responsible for any discrepancy or copyright infringement.
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Galgotias University
Galgotias University is devoted to excellence in teaching, research and innovation, and to develop leaders who'll make a difference to the world. The University, which is based in Greater Noida, has an enrolment of over 15,000 students across more than 100 Undergraduate and Post Graduate programs. The 'students-first' philosophy is a big reason why Galgotias University is consistently ranked among India's top universities. The focus of Galgotias University is on low student-to-faculty ratio that promotes plenty of personal attention and mentoring opportunities.
The record breaking placement at Galgotias is an apt testimony to its focus on upholding the highest academic standards right from selecting top faculty, introducing world-class pedagogical approach. School of Architecture School of Architecture strives to educate and groom the future leaders for building industry. They will design and build sustainable and futuristic living environments for future generations to create cities and towns that are based on a foundation of people first. The School provides students with an aesthetically motivated and technically rigorous design-based education. The comprehensive and flexible core curricula of the School‘s graduate degree program enable students to develop a specialized professional or academic focus in one of the program areas.
Students have opportunities to become well acquainted with a wide range of contemporary design approaches. The School does not seek to impose any single design philosophy, but rather encourages every student to approach towards an innovative and unique design solution.
Organising Committee Patron: Prof. (Dr.) Renu Luthra, Vice Chancellor, Galgotias University
Secretary: Prof. Atul Setya, Dean SoA, Galgotias University
Convenor: Prof. (Dr) Bipasha Kumar, Professor SoA, Galgotias University
Coordinator: Ar. Kamini Singh, Associate Professor SoA, Galgotias University
Co-Coordinators: Ar. Ruchi Arora, Assistant Professor SoA, Galgotias University
Ar. Sawan Kumar, Assistant Professor SoA, Galgotias University
Ar. Mohd. Nadeem, Assistant Professor SoA, Galgotias University
Treasurer: Ar. Naved A. Ariyana, Assistant Professor SoA, Galgotias University
Er. Indrajit Barua, Assistant Professor SoA, Galgotias University
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Contents
1. Preface ...... 4
2. Healthy Cities for All – Prof A K Maitra ...... 6
3. Development of Environmentally Sustainable and Inclusive Architecture” Its Context and Concerns – Prof H B Singh ...... 7
4. Deciphering Sustainability through Storm Water Management – Prof. Chitra Chidambaram ...... 8
5. Social Inclusion in Built Environment: The Role of Architectural Schools in Delivering the Change – Architect Vijay Garg ...... 9
6. Building Unique Cities – Olga Chepelianskaia ...... 10
7. Interiors in Architecture – Architect Parul Walecha ...... 11
8. Indicators for Environmentally Sustainable and Inclusive Architecture – Dr. Bipasha Kumar...... 12
9. Challenges in creative industry for a Sustainable future – Architect Adil Afsar ...... 20
10. Lack of Inclusivity of Migrant Communities in Housing Policies : A case of the Bangalore Metropolitan area – Meghna Mohandas ...... 26
11. Understanding Social Inclusion – Alka Arora ...... 35
12. Sustainable Building Interiors: Review of its adverse effects – Aprajita Singh...... 42
13. Urban farming: edible landscape for sustainable cities – Kamini Singh, Anant Pratap Singh ...... 49
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Preface
Sustainability is a broad and multifaceted concept, which has grown to be one of the major issues in the built environment. Society is becoming gradually conscious not only of the significance of environmentally responsible building but also interior design. Thus, Architects, designers, engineers and others involved in the building process have a unique opportunity to reduce environmental impact through the implementation of sustainability objectives and enhancing the quality of life by including all strata of society and to understand the vulnerabilities of natural forces.
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In recent years the concept of accessible and inclusive design apply across the totality of built environment. Inclusive design is defined by the British Standards Institute as “the design of mainstream products and/or services that are accessible to, and useable by, as many people as reasonably possible without the need for special adaption or specialised design.” Thus, there is an opportunity for designers to think outside the box when it comes to inclusive design. The challenge is to create environments which must identify the impacts of every design choice on the natural and cultural resources of the local, regional and global environments.
The Aim of this conference is to look at the holistic nature of Built Environment that is inclusive of people and environment. The conference is proposed to be undertaken under Four Sub
Themes:
Environmentally Sustainable Architecture
Social Inclusion in Built Environment
Design in Context
Sustainable Building Interiors: Contemporary Trends
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Healthy Cities for All – Prof A K Maitra
Abstract
Cities accommodate large number of people in relatively small spatial frame which allow easy transmission of communicable diseases from air, water or soil. The presentation talks about historic evolution of understanding the phenomenon of heath in the cities, the role of legislation in maintaining the various aspects of cleanliness and hygiene. Various legislation related to the phenomenon. To address the issue it is not sufficient to rely solely on government. Architects and planners have a major role to play in making cities sustainable and healthy. Vertical agriculture, passive cooling of building to reduce energy consumption and emission of pollutants in air are few concepts worth considering.
About the Speaker Prof. A K Maitra
Prof A.K.Maitra is an architect-Town Planner by profession. Graduated in 1964 in Archirecture from B,E.College , Sibpore, and did his post graduate in Town Planning from Leeds School of Town Planning in 1971 and became a Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute in 1973.He was former director of SPA Delhi and former Dean of Apeejay School of Architecture. Greater Noida
He has been involved in the field of planning and development of human settlements within environmental sustainability for more than 4 decades now. He is conversant with the technology involved in environmental management, conservation and provision of environmental services through practice and teaching.
He is associated with several committees of both national and state government dealing with urban development and environment. As a practitioner he is consultant to several government, semi-government, and international organisations such as World Bank, ADB and GTZ. He has been professional consultant to various national and international consulting organization in environment policy and planning, urban planning and housing, on areas like formulation of environmental safeguards and guidelines; environmental impact assessment for Townships, Airports, Infrastructure projects; environment management plan for industrial areas; environmental assessment for infrastructure projects; technical assistance for project identification and development; spatial planning of townships and new towns; and so on.
He has authored several books (e.g. Urban Environment in Crisis, Environmental Quality of Human Settlements) and contributed to few others (e.g. Consuming Cities, Shahjahanabad, Shells Shelter Networks, Environmental Education and Sustainable Development etc)
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Development of Environmentally Sustainable and Inclusive Architecture” Its Context and Concerns . – Prof H B Singh
Abstract Indian view of Sustainable Development is to ‘Think Globally act locally’. The process of human evolution is based on the theory of ‘collective good’ and that’s where architecture and physical planning should find their scope of work. Indian settlements had a clear hierarchy where metro cities were on to and reaching to smallest of village and hamlet. However, the discipline of architecture was selectively practiced among elite only. Indian settlements are very high in terms of population density which provides a huge scope for sustainable development. The SDGs and MDGs talk about how this can be achieved and there is a greater need to integrate this in our development process.
About the Speaker Prof. H B Singh
H B Singh is a retired professor of Urban and Regional Planning from School of Planning and Architecture New Delhi. Apart from academics, he is engaged as development consultant / advisor to a few MNCs and has lead their professional teams
Born in 1942 in Sultanpur (now Amethi) Uttar Pradesh, his education took place at Allahabad. There after he undertook his graduation and post-graduation in Architecture and Town Planning at the University of Roorkee and School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, respectively. Eventually, he also did an advance course in Urban Management Development from the University of Birmingham U.K. He was employed in responsible positions in the Town and Country planning Department of the Government of Uttar Pradesh and Government of India, before his stint of 12 years as Chief Architect Planner in one of the largest universities - A.B.U. Zaria, Nigeria. After his return, he was selected to the position of the Principal, Government college of Architecture, Lucknow, through UP Public Service Commission. Finally, he joined School of Planning and Architecture New Delhi (An Institution of National Importance) and retired as Professor and Head, Department of Regional Planning and Centre for Rural Development.
He has written a large number of professional articles and co-authored three books, the latest being “Urbanisation in India: Spatial Perspectives”. He has extensively travelled and delivered lectures in few prestigious American universities. His varied and global experience in academics and profession, in developing and developed countries, various tiers of
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Governments and MNCs, have provided him with deeper and contextual understanding of Urban, Rural and Regional Planning concerns.
Deciphering Sustainability through Storm Water Management – Prof. Chitra Chidambaram
Abstract The movement of sustainability begin in 19070 and got strengthened with Brundtland commission report in 1987. The vicious cycle of limited availability of resources and human consumption patterns have created a system of unsustainable development. The three pillars of sustainability – social, environmental and economic have reached almost every sector. The presentation talks about the Idea of Environmental Sustainability. It has been addressed here particularly taking example of water as a resource, the Storm water management in Indian cities through the case study of Kushak Barapullah Drainage Basin, Delhi. The solution to the issue of water resource management has been given by Intervention Matrix and a Schematic model.
About the Speaker Chitra Chidambaram
Architect- Planner
Ms. Chitra Chidambaram is an architect-planner with a B.Arch from University of Visveswariah College of engineering Bangalore and specialization in Infrastructure Planning from University of Stuttgart, Germany. She has over 30 years of professional experience working in various capacities on architecture and research projects of national and international bodies including DST, HUDCO, FICCI, UNDP, etc. with a keen interest in sustainable buildings for over 2 decades now. As early as in 1995, she was awarded the first prize in the design ideas competition of HUDCO on energy-efficient low cost housing and has been associated with Griha as evaluator and trainer and IGBC as Accredited Professional. She been associated as a faculty at the School of Architecture and Planning, Sharda University, Also associated with the MiSBM project of Indo Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is on the Technical Expert Committee of National Accreditation Board of Education and Training (NABET).
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Social Inclusion in Built Environment: The Role of Architectural Schools in Delivering the Change . –Architect Vijay Garg
Abstract Education indeed is part and parcel of practice in India however presently the two stands apart. Institutes spaces for convergence of ideas from across the globe and possess immense potential of bringing the change. Hence, there is a need to establish an internal consensus with the professional practice to work together towards making better cities, making them sustainable by better design, and to bring back the belief of society in profession of architecture. The perspective of Government is very important to understand as it is looking for value from architects in the building industry. We need to make in-depth studies to define goals for research for assessing the societal needs from the profession that is safer buildings and simple and impactful research to make our profession valuable for society. About the Speaker
Vijay Garg
Architect
Ar. Vijay Garg, is the Vice-president of Council of Architecture (CoA).He has served in capacities of Joint Hon. Secretary, Treasurer & Chairman (Publication Board of IIA). He has been an “Alternate Council Member Region IV” & “Member of Competition Commission” of International Union of Architects, Regional Corresponding Editor of ARCASIA Magazine & has been the Founder Member & Chairman of SPA Alumni Association. He is also an Expert Member in the Architectural Board of Education at AICTE.
Ar. Vijay Garg is graduated from School of Planning & Architecture, New Delhi in 1989 and further earned his post graduate diploma in Human Resource & Management from National Institute of Human Resources and Management, Madras. He has also served as a Member on Executive, Academic & General Councils of SPA, New Delhi. He is actively pursuing architectural practice since 1990 and also a Visiting Faculty at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi.
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Building Unique Cities – Olga Chepelianskaia
Uniqueness catalyses our deepest aspirations related to cities and unique visual identities in cities determine our wellbeing and it also creates social cohesion and sense of identity. We are not meant to live in uniform concrete urban jungles all across the world, yet this is how we majorly build our cities today. In the process Asian cities are losing their visual Identity. Does it have to be so or do we have a say in it? What can we do to make our cities sustainable, inclusive, connecting and uplifting? The talk dwells into why building unique is critically important today and what we can do to reintroduce uniqueness in our cities. About the Speaker
Olga Chepelianskaia
Olga Chepelianskaia is an international sustainability expert and Founder of UNICITI. She specializes on sustainable and climate resilient urban development in Asian cities, natural eco- systems and heritage revival, climate change and clean energy. Over 13 years of her professional engagement, she managed 5 major international programs, covered over 20 cities and 40 countries, and worked with 7 top international institutions: ADB, CDIA, Rockefeller Foundation, UNDP, UNECE, UNEP and UNESCAP. Her expertise covers program management, governance, policy and urban planning, stakeholder engagement, access to finance, valorisation of cultural and natural assets, capacity building, PR and communication. Her focus is on helping Asian cities become vibrant, sustainable, climate resilient, economically dynamic, inclusive and culturally unique. Her brand approach is to place city’s natural and cultural assets at the core of its development to generate unique economic, social and environmental opportunities.
She is a speaker and moderator of numerous international urban resilience and clean energy events, including recently the Smart Cities Expo (New Delhi, India), the World Urban Forum 9 (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia), UNDP Asia Forum on the Role of Local and Urban Governments in Building Sustainable and Resilient Cities and Rural Areas (Haiyang, China), Future Energy Forum 2017 (Astana, Kazakhstan), Climate Forum’17 (Moscow, Russia), World Bank INSPIRE 2017 (Jaipur, Rajasthan), or ICLEI Resilient Cities Asia-Pacific 2017 (Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam).
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Interiors in Architecture – Architect Parul Walecha
Abstract The speaker talked about the role of sustainability in in Architecture and how designing good interiors make them sustainable. She Demonstrated the Idea by giving examples of master Architects like Geoffery Bawa and Farnk Lloyd Wright whose philosophy was to look inside of Architecture. Today, Architects are obsessed with modern elevations however more than 80% of Architectural Experience is actually in Interiors as humans tend to spend more time indoors. The interiors are to be designed as a place to relax and rejuvenate. She further demonstrated the idea by showing some her executed projects like – Jhelumi Farm House at Chattarpur Delhi, Office of The Scrapbook at New Friends Colony, Shop of Sin Bakers N More.
About the Speaker
Parul Walecha Architect
She undertook her graduation from Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal. She has a professional memberships of; Council of Architecture, Associate Member I.I.A (Indian institute of Architects) and Associate Member I.I.I.D (Indian Institute of Interior designers). She is also a visiting faculty of SPA Delhi and AIAP Greater Noida. She has over 15 years of experience in Architectural and Interior Design practice with reputed organization
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Indicators for Environmentally Sustainable and Inclusive Architecture –Dr. Bipasha Kumar
Abstract Environmental sustainability in architecture deal with the environmental and physical impacts of structures by developing resourceful approaches, materials, energy and variation in spaces that are favourable to the surrounding environment or societies. The idea is to validate that the activities at present don’t have harmful significances for forthcoming generations and fulfil the ideologies of social, economic and environmental sustainability. Alternatively inclusive architecture attempts to create environs that inspire social communication integration, interaction and deference – spaces that rejoice diversity and variance.
The deeper understanding of the design issues involved in delivering environmentally sustainable architecture, and making architecture accessible to all considers certain indicators. Thus the study explores the indicators of environmentally sustainable architecture and inclusive architecture. The indicators identified as factors having an impact are categorized under clusters; physical and social. Key Words Indicators; Environmentally Sustainable; Inclusive Architecture
1.0 Introduction The term of development of sustainable architecture was used in the early 1970s and after the Rio Conference in 1992 inclusive that the situation of sustainable architecture became clear at the conference (Naseri & Amiri, 2015). However, it is possible to trace the roots of the concept back to the 1950s/1960s, when developed nations were becoming increasingly aware that the local or regional environment was being stressed by rapid industrialization (Sustainable development). According to World Bank’s definition any development project should not surpass the regenerative capability of the environment i.e., the capital of natural resources should not be spent. It is only the cyclic, renewable, additionally accrued natural wealth that should be spent or utilised. As sustainability is underlined, architecture that is widely and communally accountable gaining much interest.
The one aspect is the need of creating a harmonious environment and solving diverse and complex facets related to its development and construction in line with the concept of sustainable development of human settlements. This is a major and urgent task in front of modern architecture and construction science. Galloping urbanization, the rapid development of various technologies and technical means that from an artificial environment on the one hand,
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and natural disasters occurring in the world because of its depletion caused by the same development, on the other hand, creates new requirements and conditions for modern architecture (Abyzov, 2017 ). Good environmental practice usually goes hand in hand with good econo0mic practice. Measures to reduce the consumption of energy and water not only benefit the environment by reducing emissions and conserving resources, but will also result in substantial financial cost savings over the lifetime of the building. The other aspect indicates the making of environs, products and amenities accessible and usable by as many number of people as possible, of all ages, sizes and with different abilities, given them equal opportunity to participate in society. Thus the physical environment can openly benefit people contributing in desired activities on equal terms with the majority. The design project, as central subject in the designer’s formation, should be developed having in mind the Inclusive Design principles, in a sustainable perspective, behind the concept dissemination.( Silva & Almendra, 2007)
In the past decade, building environmental assessment methods have emerged in many parts of the world as a legitimate means to evaluate the performance of buildings across a broad range of environmental issues (Cole, 1999).The objective of this paper is to present a strong and complete set of indicators for physical and social aspects of building. The idea is to identify those areas of depletion which can mark noteworthy aids to environmental sustainability, and inclusive architecture.
2.0 Selection of Indicators An indicator is expressed by a value derived from a combination of different measurable parameters (variables). Indicators have to be defined in a clear, transparent, unambiguous, and correct way, even before addressing the concern of whether they relate to and evaluate several parameters. The indicators are usually grouped (aggregated, categorized), and further various aggregated indicators may create subgroups in a hierarchical system (Koukkari et al, 2010). Thus, indicator is an observation that we choose to consider as a reflection of a variable we wish to study. Indicators of sustainability are necessary for determining how well buildings perform against environmental, social, socio-cultural and economic criteria on regional, national and global scale (Waer and Sibley, 2005). Indicators are used in many different disciplines and spheres of life to provide relevant information in an easily comprehensible way about (often complex) systems that do not readily reveal this information to the human actor and the limited perceptual capacities with which nature has equipped him.( Dammann, 2004). As measures of environmental sustainable and inclusive architecture physical and social indicators are supposed to refer to sustainable goals and be relevant for the built environment. Thus, the selection of indicators should determine the goal dimensions and environmental concerns to be covered by the indicators system (Noll, 2002)
The factors that need to be considered for constructing a framework of social and physical indicators are:
1. Measurement: The specific concerns and extents of measurement should be shielded by the indicators system. By making effects measurable it becomes possible to check the
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variations and to evaluate the rigorousness of a difficult state and the efficiency of the measures taken to resolve it. 2. Procedures of measurement: Developing a framework of physical and social indicators one has to define structural components and to define the processes of measurement. 3. Criteria of Measurement: To construct framework of social indicators, certain recognized criteria need to be followed. The various variables of the framework of indicators need to be categorized as dependent and independent variables. The indicators should be steady, non-repeating and present clarity of the subject to be measured. The framework shall be inclusive in terms of significant scopes of measurement and also be excess in the sense of using additional indicators than the number essentially needed for correct measurement.
For each of the indicators, a baseline is often used to express the “standard quality” that needs to be maintained or the target that needs to be reached if it is not there yet. (Dong and Hauschild, 2017)
3.0 Identification of Indicators The indicators are a first step in correctly measuring the desired factors so that it can be given the priority that it deserves in the change process. However, exposure and social fragility can posit some physical and social variables that reflect a comparatively critical situation. The intensive literature review background has been used by the author for the identification of indicators and variables for environmentally sustainable architecture and inclusive architecture.
3.1 Environmentally Sustainable Architecture The basic idea of environmental indicators for buildings is to permit the concern of a building’s environmental effects at equal terms with the constraints of construction, function, aesthetic and economy. The transformation of our society into a sustainable one is certainly of a complex nature according to Morin’s model. And so is the attempt to integrate the difficulties of environmental sustainability into the presentation of diverse sectors. But to which pattern are environmental indicators to be fixed? The very idea of operationalising complex problems by quantifying them in the form of indicators traditionally derives from thinking in the simplicity paradigm. Hence the possible indicators identified for environmentally sustainable architecture are as follows:
Orientation: Based on the movements of the sun the side of the building that is utilized for solar gain needs to be facing the south to take maximum advantage of the sun’s potential energy. If the building’s axis is located on the east-west direction with its longest dimension facing the south, more of the building is situated to absorb the sun’s heat energy (Orientation).
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Fenestration: Openings such as windows allow natural light into the home and can promote passive solar heating and cooling, as well as providing natural points of ventilation, air circulation and fire exits (Energy Education, 2018). Thus, sizing, positioning and detailing windows to get the most benefit from the sun while avoiding overheating in summer and heat loss in winter is necessary. Thermal Mass: Thermal mass' describes a material's capacity to absorb, store and release heat. For example water and concrete have a high capacity to store heat and are referred to as 'high thermal mass' materials. Insulation foam, by contrast, has very little heat storage capacity and is referred to as having 'low thermal mass’ (Thermal mass). Thus, providing sufficiently exposed thermal mass to store heat from the sun in the winter and act as a heat sink for cooling in the summer is recommended however, the benefits of thermal mass are often lost through excessive wall, ceiling and floor coverings. Protection: The building envelope refers to the exterior facade, and is comprised of walls, windows, roof, skylights, doors, and other openings. The envelope protects the building’s interior and occupants from the weather conditions and other external elements. The design features of the envelope strongly affect the visual and thermal comfort of the occupants, as well as energy consumption in the building (Building Envelope, 2009). Thus, specifying high levels of insulation to reduce unwanted heat loss or heat gains through the roof, walls, doors, windows and floors. Aeration of Buildings: The aeration is the orderly natural ventilation which occurs because of the density difference between the external and internal air and the action of the wind on the walls and roof of a building (Aeration of Buildings). Thus, designing pure and robustly controlled air flows through buildings for daytime and night time cooling is essential. Thermal Zoning: In the design of heating ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC), a ‘zone’ is an area of a building in which temperature is controlled by one thermostat. This is not the same as a single space or room. Carefully designed zoning can help rationalise different thermal demands and so reduce the number of HVAC subsystems required (Thermal zones). Thus, substantial savings can be achieved Building Materials: Sustainability in Architecture specifies materials that do not harm the environment at any stage of their life cycle — from first manufacturing to end-of-use recycling. Natural, bio-degradable, and recycled building materials are becoming to be commonly used. Careful selection of environmentally sustainable building materials is the easiest way for architects to begin incorporating sustainable design principles in buildings (Kim J-J, 1998).
Prototypical sustainable buildings are deliberate, provided that the indicators are integrated into the design process from the earliest stages rather than tacking on expensive overtly environmental features to fix problems that could have been designed out in the first place. In this context, the architects to preserve the environment is very important because they directly or indirectly about seventy percent are involved in climate change.
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3.2 Inclusive Architecture The initiative is to validate how the design practices can accept a predictable inclusive approach, if those principles are measured right from the very beginning, they may contribute for a better knowledge and application of the rule and standards in what concerns accessibilities and Inclusive Design. When developing a Design Project, in a way to integrate a greater number of persons we should be able to make our choices about spaces, environment, objects and information design. Hence the indicators identified for inclusive architecture are as follows:
Barrier free movement: Barrier Free Environment is one which enables people with disabilities to move about safely and freely and to use the facilities within the built environment (CPWD, 1998). The movement systems should be well designed and well managed. It should be distinguished, reachable, affordable, benign and easy to use. Inclusive design creates a way for everyone to get around. Accessibility: Accessibility defines users’ ability to use products/services, but not the extent to which they can attain goals (usability) (IDF). It is physical access to spaces and facilities, including access to suitable technology. Inclusive design should be getting to, into places, and using them. Multiple choices: Inclusive design emphasizes the contribution that understanding user diversity makes to informing these decisions, and thus to including as many people as possible (University of Cambridge). Inclusive design should provide numerous choices when a particular design solution cannot come across all users’ requirements. It should serve a varied range of distinct preferences and capacities. Integrating: Everyone in the mainstream of everyday life.(Vavik & Gheerawo (2009) People centered design: It is a rapid and iterative interaction design methodology focused on understanding and engaging individuals in ways that are useful, usable, and desirable. (Hugh Graham Creative). It is about the comfort of people.
The UK Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (2006) published five principles for inclusive design in buildings, places and spaces. These principles could be considered as the indicators for inclusive architecture which are as follows: 1. Inclusive design places people at the heart of the design process. 2. Inclusive design acknowledges diversity and difference. 3. Inclusive design offerschoicewhereasingledesignsolutioncannotaccommodateallusers. 4. Inclusive design provides for flexibility in use. 5. Inclusive design provides buildings and environments that are enjoyable to use for everyone. These principles have some similarity to the principles for universal design established in1997. Further these seven principles of universal design could also be considered as the indicators of Inclusive design which are as follows: 1. Equitable use 2. Flexibility in use 3. Simple and intuitive use 4. Perceptible Information 5. Tolerance for error
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6. Low physical error 7. Size and space for approach and use. (CUD, 2008)
4.0 Conclusion Sustainability no longer contemplates merely as an environmental apprehension, but also includes economic and social dimensions. This paper examines available environmental sustainability and inclusive architecture indicators. To select the applicable indicators for decision making it is necessary to appreciate the perspective of the indicators and the answer to the problem that is to be addressed. Moreover, there are some indicators that may overlay with others, which should also be taken into account. The chosen indicator sets should be certainly in consultation with the decision- makers. Several considerations were discussed when choosing the right indicator sets for a precise purpose. However more research is needed to establish the cause-effect chain and make available correct indicators in the future.
5.0 References 1. Naseri, G.H & Amiri, A. (2015) Environmental factors step towards achieving sustainable architecture and environment, Science Journal (CSJ), Vol. 36, No: 3 Special Issue 2. Sustainable Development, available at thttps://www.springer.com/cda/content/document/ cdadownloaddocument/9783662469231-c2.pdf?SGWID=0-0-45-1516676-p177342195, Accessed on 17.7.2018 3. Abyzov, V. (2017) , Modern Conditions and the Impacts of the Creation of Architectural Environment, IOP Conf. Series: Materials Science and Engineering, Available at http://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1757-899X/245/8/082050/pdf Accessed on 22.10.2018 4. Silva, F. M. & Almendra, R. (2007) Inclusive Design: A New Approach to Design Project, Available on https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-1-4020-5690-1, Accessed on 22.10.2018 5. Cole, R. J. (1999) Building environmental assessment methods: clarifying intentions. Building Research and Information, Vol. 27 no. 4 6. Bragança, L., Mateus, R. and Koukkari, H (2010), Building Sustainability Assessment available at www.mdpi.com/journal/sustainability Accessed on 12..07.2018 7. Al Waer, H. and Sibley, M. (2005) Building Sustainability Assessment Methods: Indicators,Applications, Limitations And Development Trends Available at https://www.irbnet.de/daten/iconda/CIB_DC23506.pdf Accessed on 12..07.2018 8. Dammann, S.(2004), Environmental indicators for buildings Available at https://www.kth.se/social/upload/4ea9a648f2765455e1000001/Dammann%202004.pdf Acessed on 17.7.2018 9. Noll, H.-H.,(2002), Towards a European System of Social Indicators: Theoretical Framework and System Architecture, Social Indicators Research, Volume 58, Issue 1–3, Available at https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/A:1015775631413, Accessed on 17.7.2018
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10. Dong, Y. and Hauschild, M. Z.(2017), Indicators for environmental sustainability, The 24th CIRP Conference on Life Cycle Engineering. Availabl at www.sciencedirect.com, Accessed on 17.7.2018 11. Kim J-J (1998), Qualities, Use and Examples of Sustainable Building Materials, National Pollution Prevention Center for Higher Education, available at www.umich.edu/~nppcpub/ Accessed on 2.08.2018 12. Orientation / South Facing Windows, Green Passive Solar Magazine Available at https://greenpassivesolar.com/passive-solar/building-characteristics/orientation-south- facing-windows/ 13. Fenestration, Energy Education (2018), Available at https://energyeducation.ca/encyclopedia/Fenestration Accessed on 3.9.2018 14. Thermal mass, Green Building Design, Available at http://www.greenspec.co.uk/building- design/thermal-mass/ Accessed on 3.9.2018 15. Building Envelope, (2009) available at http://www.keralaenergy.gov.in/files/Building Envelope Tip_Sheet.pdf Accessed on 17.7.2018 16. Aeration of Buildings, Available athttps://encyclopedia2.the freedictionary.com/ Aeration+of+Buildings, Accessed on 3.9.2018 17. Thermal zones in building design, Available at https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Thermal_zones_in_building_design Accessed on 3.9.2018 18. Vavik,T. & Gheerawo, R.(2009)The challenges in Universal Design.In: Vavik, T. (ed.) Inclusive Buildings 19. Products & Services –Challenges in Universal Design.Trondheim: Tapir Academic Press. 20. UK. Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (2006) The principles of inclusive design. (They include you.)Available on http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110118095356/http:/ www.cabe.org.uk/publications/the-‐principles--‐of--‐inclusive--‐design.[Accessed on 20.7.2018 21. CUD, the Center for Universal Design (2008) Principle of Universal Design. Available at http://www.ncsu.edu/ncsu/design/cud/about_ud/udprinciples.htm. Accessed on 17.7.2018 22. Guidelines and Space Standards for Barrier free Built Environment for Disabled and Elderly Persons. (1998) Central Public Works Department (CPWD), Ministry of Urban Affairs and Employment. Available at https://cpwd.gov.in/Publication/aged&disabled.PDF Accessed on 17.7.2018 23. Accessibility, Interaction Design Foundation (IDF), Available at https://www.interaction- design.org/literature/topics/accessibility, Accessed on 3.9.2018 24. People-Centered Design, Hugh Graham Creative Available at http://hughgrahamcreative.com/people-centered-design/ Accessed on 23.08.2018 25. Inclusive Design Toolkit (2017), University of Cambridge, Available at http://www.inclusivedesigntoolkit.com/whatis/whatis.html, Accessed on 3.9.2018.
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About the Author:
Dr. Bipasha Kumar is an Architect, Planner, Academician and Administrator with a B. Arch. from MANIT, Bhopal, M.Arch from Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi and PhD from SPA Delhi. She has about 25 years of professional, academic, research and Administrative experience. At present she is Professor and Officiating Dean at Galgotias University, Greater Noida. She has also taught Bachelor of .Architecture at Apeejay School of Architecture and planning Greater Noida and Sharda University, Greater Noida. She has also served as Coordinators for the course in both the schools. She has also been associated with SPA Delhi briefly as visiting faculty.
Before coming to academics she has worked with architectural offices in Bhopal, Calcutta and Noida and was also practicing on her own. Her areas of interest include Urban Risk, Transformation of Urban Villages, Impact of Built Environment, Architectural Pedagogy and Teaching issues in Architecture Education. To her credit, she has several International and National publications and presentations.
Contact: [email protected],
19 I n t e r n ational Conference on Development of Environmentally Sustainable and Inclusive Architecture 02 – 03 Aug 2018 School of Architecture Galgotias University Uttar Pradesh
Challenges in creative industry for a Sustainable future – Architect Adil Afsar
Abstract The humans have been the only specie on the planet which is actually longing for more with each and every second passing by. This desire for becoming more of itself or obtaining from its humane capabilities have lead them to possess more, consume more and utilize more from its skills and from itself. This excessive increase in the desire of human capabilities is caused due to the very nature of human brain that become quite used to the experience it delves itself in. Thus, the human brain have been designed as such which is constantly craving for new experiences and stimulus to interact and create new memories. Hence, the people are in constantly in dire urge to experience something phenomenal that they haven’t experienced before. Weather it is living in a mansion, driving a Lamborghini or dating a women. The world is seeking new experiences to revitalize our brain cells creative new stories.
Keywords- Informal sector, sustainability, Indian craftsmen, technology, Reuse, Recycle Introduction When it comes to architecture, design, arts or any creative industry, the major goal of the profession is to make the audience travel and go through a journey the creator has envisioned within himself. For a successful travel or journey the experience has to have these very vital two pronged aspects. Firstly, it has to be fresh and provide a value addition to the overall journey. This freshness of the concept and idea along with the uplift of the standards of living rejuvenates the audience with the sense of betterment and appraisal. Secondly, this experience shall be long lasting and shall withhold the audience attention for long period of time catering to the needs of constantly evolving economy. These two aspects are the very basic root ingredients of a successful creative practice of which the later one is the most challenging and very talked about in the name of sustainability.
Sustainability can be addressed in every form and shape while we move around the city. It can be witness quite a bit in practicing our very daily chores. What is needed at this point of time is the eye for observation for this sustainability gap in every small nuance of our routine life. It is quite true that most of the Designers; Architects have been on their toes to address the issue and working hard on it. They have been taken on these challenges and proved their metal fulfilling both the aspects for creative practice. The Architects have developed buildings which can not only give an astounding experience to dwell in but are also an example of Architectural marvel when it comes to climate change and even ready for other futuristic emergencies. While, many tried a different approach to it and focused on the use of locally available materials and craftsmen for sustainable employment and efficient utilization of natural resources. By and large, the Architects and designers have been addressing the issue for quite a while and been tackling the disproportion caused by the issue imparting durability of Buildings, utilization of resources and employments.
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Sustainability The idea of sustainability is a very inclusive subject and cannot be dealt in a sequestered manner. To understand and deal with this so important issue where the natural resources are depleting and the fact where the future generations would be having very limited resources to survive. India is a home to one-sixth of the world’s population and is the densest population the world has ever seen. It has got the world’s second largest population after china which will be superseded in the next ten years if the pattern continued. Now, despite of having per capita emissions as lowest in the world, it still holds for the third largest place for biggest generator of emissions. This pattern in itself shows a huge gap in the emissions and contribution to the carbon footprint on the world scale hereby, determining the sustainability in disproportionate utilization of resources. Only way to deal with this dire concern is to understand the cause of this disproportion. So far attempts have been made to deal with the repercussions of this disproportion. Now, the question arises here is disproportion of what and among whom. So the answer to this can be quite witness throughout history and how people have evolved and society has been working since ages. It is the disproportion among the capitalists and the working class. It is the unequal distribution of resources among the capitalist and the working class. This can be seen everywhere and anywhere and we stumble upon this issue every day and night. Till the time we don’t address this cause we would find ourselves rather squandering our time dealing with the consequences rather than the cause. For example, A simple dosa costing Rs 40 on a local shop will cost Rs 400 in a hotel. Now, if while analyzing this, it is quite clear that the breakup of Rs 40 can be understood as Rs 10 profit + Rs 30 contributing to the entire supply chain including the chatni maker, the rickshaw, the shop rental etc. Here everybody get its share, and the amount is distributed wisely. While in a hotel a maximum of Rs 200 costs the supply chain including the waiter, AC, Chef, the vegetables etc. and a big chunk of Rs 200 goes directly to the owner.
Now, the above example is a very small anecdote of disproportion of resources which is quite common but has been avoided since long. Thus its time, that the people need to address such sensitive issues creating a clarion call to balance resources and the make the world sustainable for everybody. The need is not to create a very lavish home with all the luxuries and comfort in place. But to create shelter to all, even for the non-privileged ones. The need is not to create a best piece of clothing but to ensure that everybody covers their body well. The need is not to create a best food with all the flavours and piled up like a building at a single plate but to distribute them evenly so that no body dies out of hunger.
“The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings; the inherent virtue of socialism is the equal sharing of miseries” – Winston Churchill
What can be done has enormous potential. But will have to alter the mind-set and think again humane ways to solve problems. We have forgotten that we design buildings for people; create streets for people not for expensive furniture and luxury cars. How can one jettison the people and their intrinsic behaviour? The Architects and Designers have now not needed to limit them to Architecture or planning, but understanding human behaviour as an inclusive society. Need to delve in to systems of working of the city, policies making and aim to create a balanced society where everybody is needed with their skill, expertise and interests.
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The Informal and the formal sector We have been looking at the issue of sustainability in a very alien perspective to Indian culture. The manner in which the issue of sustainability is dealt is very much taken from the west, which was quite apt to their cultural context and lifestyle. In India, the system of working of cities, is entirely different. Also, it’s quite contrasting from one city to another. For example, In Mumbai, the Dabbawallas have proved themselves to be more efficient way of delivering foods than any other mechanized system or applications without fail. Recently, a young boy named “Tilak Mehta” founded company “papers and parcels” and chooses the Dabbawallas and not any other courier company for its delivery because of their spontaneity and accuracy and affordable cost. Now, these Dabbawallas in Mumbai have proved their efficiency than all other formalized companies. Though while planning and designing cities, they are hardly considered and kept sequestered as a marginalized informal sector.
The informal sector which is rarely taken into account contributes to nearly 50% of the country’s GDP. Yet, it is considered to be marginalized and is paid no heed. With the advent of this formalized corporate sector, the old effective system of daily services has been jettisoned in manner that it hardly exists. The old stree walla, kabari walla, bijlli wala who have been providing services in minimum costs sustaining their livelihood are vanishing day by day. Ever wonder, how these services are rendered to people starting from the newspaper delivery to all day long with accuracy, efficiency and without fail. These local services runs the people and the city so effortlessly that it had been hardly observed and shifting to more corporate oriented service systems would be actually feeding the capitalists a far excessive cost than what is received on ground as sustainable means. As mentioned in “sustainable development: The Indian perspective” – “Clearly these services cannot be dismissed as a hangover from India's past. To rush to replace the wallahs with more contemporary and 'cleaner' service production systems would be misguided in its intentions”.
“You have to decide whether development means affluence or whether development means peace, prosperity and happiness “– Sunderlal Bahuguna
In this rush to create more formalized and corporate sort of system, the potential to innovate with the issues at hand and what which the city creates in itself for solving issues for effective running of the city is being undermined. Today, even Architects do not plan for the local markets and vendors who ensures the pace of life effortlessly at quite affordable costs sustaining their lives and family along. The supermarkets and big stores have taken over to provide you food and vegetables in air conditioned spaces. The big reason of such increase in such stores around residential housing and colonies is because of heavy returns which these big giants companies offer than any street vendors and vegetables can provide even collectively. Its time, that the creative folk of the generation have this utmost responsibility to root out ways from the Indian context for the generation which is heading head to head in technology with the other nations yet innovating with vigour and the diversified strength of the nation and its potential. Indian Craftsmen Indian arts and crafts have been deep routed in the culture of the Indian citizens. In India, every person belongs to a particular caste in every religion being practiced. The entire caste system
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was created on the kind of skill people possess and profession they pursue. These skills set used to be acquired from their ancestors and carried down to future generations. Throughout history, the India once used to be the admirer for the entire world for their fine craftsmanship and skills the people of the country possess. Undoubtedly, this craftsmanship also holds an essence of the traditions and culture and diversity of its ethics. But unfortunately, the craftsmen in the country are declining due to several reasons. Some of the major reasons are financial stability in the profession and their competence with the industrialized goods. Secondly, due to lack of social recognition and reputation, the craftsmen don’t want the generations to delve into the same industry but look for more reputable jobs in the society.
Thus In a country like India, which has been recognized throughout the world for its inimitable craftsmanship and impeccable skills. The Architects and Designers hold a major responsibility for utilizing their immense potential in the main stream in Architecture and Design. This will not only provide them a financial gain, but also bring in them a sense of need by the society. This will inculcate a foundation of a sustainable society where everybody with its distinct skills and knowledge is required with pride and financial freedom. Technology Technology is that powerful weapon which can be used for the benefit of the society taking people to great heights and enjoying life to its maximum potential. At the same time, the reverse use of technology can lead to such obnoxious measures one cannot even imagine. Thus, Technology can be used quite constructively for efficient utilization of resources. Parallel, it has to be crosschecked if technology is the need of the hour and not forced or just not an imitated fashion from any country with distinct diversity and strength. The need of the country is to understand the undermining strength in the diversified culture of the nation and innovate with the strengths of its own powered or backed up by technology. The technology shall not be taken as the driving force. Rather the driving force shall be the human resource at hand. The effective utilization of the human resource and that too in a country with more than 70% of its total population below an average age of 28 can supersede any country with far better technology. By 2020, India would be the most youth oriented country as compared to all the countries in the world with maximum number of young crowd. This diversified young talent needs to be nurtured, educated and utilized well equipped with technology to deal with the sustainability issues in India.
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world”- Mahatma Gandhi
Reuse – Recycle When it comes to reuse or recycle, this concept has been part of Indian lifestyle and tradition since ages. Not only, it was a practice to reuse and recycle things out of financial limitations but also, it was considered to be a part of cultural ethics to not waste food or any other stuff and utilize it to maximum capability. As mentioned wisely by “Arundhati Pandey”, Vice-curator of the World Economic Forum’s Bhopal Global Shapers Hub – “India has both a culture of hoarding (in case something might come in useful), and thriftiness (re-use and hand-me-downs). It is not an uncommon sight in an Indian household to witness an old cloth being used as a duster.”
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Thus, the uproar in the world about the need to re-use and recycle has quite been a practice in the daily lives of the people since long as part of their culture and tradition.
The “Jugaad” system quite prevalent in India with its quite a unique name is also a key example of how the people of the country have been innovating in the field of Reuse and recycle for their efficient working. The only issue worth an attention is its importance in the society. So far, the Reuse and recycle is considered to be a symbol of financial insecurity and that’s why has not been that pervasive. Indian Architects and Designers can play quite a vital role in spreading awareness about the need for the concept. They can innovate in interesting ways recycling and reusing the materials, system, techniques and revive the whole concept setting up a new trend and emergence among the people of India, contributing to more acceptances among people as to be the new trend, fashion and the need of the hour. Conclusion The Architects and Designers of the country are like the building bricks of the nation. The practice for a sustainable Architecture has been quite inspired from the west where the Architects and the owners seeks for “LEED” and “GRIHA” ratings. Instead of understanding sustainability limited to only buildings, the Architects and other creative industry shall dive deep into the overall working of the cities. The reliable and efficient systems the city holds. Understanding the professions the major youth of the city involved along with the consideration for the informal sector in place. Understanding the skills of the locally human resource available and utilizing them in the best possible way. Instead of importing materials solving a suitable purpose, creating one locally with exploration and research on techniques and materials. Reusing and recycling the materials in the best possible ways and also aware people about the same creating a fad among the youth and setting up such trends. The whole idea is to find more humane ways of problem solving and being more intuitive with how the Indian society has evolved and finds its solution within itself for its efficient functioning.
Undoubtedly, achieving sustainability in this yet diverse and huge population is quite a challenging task to perform. But with the diversity and mass population, comes in huge opportunities and potential which if tapped rightly can bring changes on the global scale. References Amrit shrinivasan & G.V.Soumitri. (2012).“Sustainable development “ https://www.aistriss.jp/old/lca/ci/activity/project/sc/report/031212_document/paper /s3-2-srinivasan.pdf https://glp.earth/sites/default/files/news/uploads/exploring_sustainability_- _azim_premji_univ.pdfArundhati pandey. (2017). “ what india can teach the world about sustainability” https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2017/10/what-india-can- teach-the-world-about-sustainability/ http://envfor.nic.in/divisions/ic/wssd/doc4/consul_book_persp.pdf Adil Afsar. (2016), “Design challenges in modern India”, Indu book services. ISBN- 93-84754-13-4. Richie Norton. “The power of starting something stupid”. Manjul publishing house. ISBN 978-81-8322-528-1
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Dr. Rita mathur (2013) “ India’s sustainable development changes” http://www.terisas.ac.in/mct/pdf/Environment_Module/Indias_Sustainable_Develo pment_Challenges.pdf Devarshi Tathagat, Dr.Ramesh D. Dod (2015)“Role of Green Buildings in Sustainable Construction- Need, Challenges and Scope in the Indian Scenario”. e-ISSN: 2278-1684,p-ISSN: 2320-334X. Arulmalar Ramaraj and Jothilakshmy Nagammal.(2016).“Unraveling the ‘Poetics’ of Sustainable Architecture and Context Specific Expressions in Indi”. Indian Journal of Science and Technology, Vol 9(5), DOI:10.17485/ijst/2016/v9i5/87223. Annapurna shaw.( 2018).”Towards sustainable cities in India”. Springer. ISBN- 971-981-10-4931-6 Appadurai, A. 1986 "The Social Life of Things: Commodities in Cultural Perspective" CUP:Cambridge Srinivasan,A. 2002 "Working With Communities", IIT Delhi http://www.iitd.ac.in/msw/Section6/11.html The India Human Development Report 2002, OUP:Delhi. About the Author
Graduated in B.Arch, Post graduated in M.Design from SPA, New Delhi, He is a practicing Architect/Product Designer and founder of ”Adil Design Stoodio” Specializing in Interiors, Lighting and Product Design.He has worked in wide range of materials like khadi, pottery, steel and sirki with various Indian craftsmen and explored the potential in distinct materials and craftsmen skills. He is also a guest faculty to renowned institutions like Sharda University, pearl Academy, Amity University and sunder deep school of Architecture. His Projects and Articles has been covered by various Renowned Magazines like A+D, Washrooms and Beyond, Higher education magazine, Plugged etc.
Email - [email protected]
25 I n t e r n ational Conference on Development of Environmentally Sustainable and Inclusive Architecture 02 – 03 Aug 2018 School of Architecture Galgotias University Uttar Pradesh
Lack of Inclusivity of Migrant Communities in Housing Policies : A case of the Bangalore Metropolitan area – Meghna Mohandas
Abstract
With 1.2 billion people India is the second most populous country in the world, second only to China1. There has been a gradual shift with a massive amount of the population migrating to urban areas in search of better livelihoods and living conditions. Unfortunately, the lack of infrastructure in Indian cities coupled with increased costs has created an exacerbating problem of homelessness within the urban poor.
Migrant communities are temporary in nature, and hence require short term rental housing that are affordable, and near livelihood opportunities. The Prime Ministers Awas Yojana is a national level program introduced in 2014 that aims to provide “Housing for All” by 2022. However, the policy does not address the lack of affordable rental housing in central urban areas. Migrant groups continue to squat in empty plots of land, and set up temporary homes made of tarpaulin sheets. They have no access to basic infrastructure like water, electricity and toilets, and are an invisible population in the eyes of government schemes and policies.
This paper provides an in-depth analysis of housing requirements of three migrant communities in Bangalore at different stages of permanency. A comparative analysis is then conducted against the PMAY to understand the lack of inclusivity of housing needs of these groups under government schemes. Under the hypothesis that a large percentage of the requirement is of affordable rental housing (established through secondary research), the paper then analyses the Draft National Urban Rental Housing Policy and the National Urban Livelihood Mission, ßand aims to provide recommendations for inclusivity under the analysed schemes.
Keywords: Housing, Migrants, Urban, Policy Phenomenon of Migration
Migration is often referred to as a reality that may be triggered due to unfavourable conditions – both natural and man-made. India being a largely agrarian economy, the consequences of climate change and the seasonal nature of agriculture is majorly responsible for large scale rural
1 United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs/Population Division, World Population Prospects: The 2017 Revision, Key Findings and Advance Tables, viewed 12th November, 2017
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to urban migration.2 For many marginalized rural families, it is the dream of making it big in the city that encourages migration. However, such dreams remain short-lived as large urban centres in India are not equipped with sufficient infrastructure to accommodate this large dynamic population.
Today the need for basic services has outgrown the availability, particularly in the urban scenario. For a low-income urban migrant, squatting remains the cheapest option for accommodation as they require temporary settlement spaces due to constant relocation from place to place in search of livelihood opportunities. It may not meet the paper standards of planning norms immediately, but almost all these slums become neighbourhoods, of given time and support.3 Recognizing diversity as a premise and working with it as an ongoing process or series of activities are the two pillars of sustainable planning. 4 However, current housing and planning policies in the Indian context do not incorporate the varying housing needs of different low-income communities, thus creating a huge gap between demand and supply.
Diversity of Urban Migrants
For the purpose of this paper, the low-income migrant population of society has been largely classified into three sectors based on status of housing, and levels of permanency in urban areas. Permanent/ Semi-Permanent (Least Vulnerable)
The first category is that of communities that have achieved a high level of permanency, and have been settled in urban areas for a minimum of 10-15 years. Communities of this nature usually are provided access to basic infrastructure such as water and electricity supply, and have permanent/semi-permanent houses constructed using brick, mortar or metal sheets.
2Mohandas, Meghna, 2017, Shades of Yellow – Inclusivity in Urban Geographies, Vowels India 3Bhan, Gautam, 2015, From Slums to Neighbourhoods, The Hindu 4Sen, Joy, 2013, Sustainable Urban Planning, New Delhi, TERI
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Figure 1: Footprint of Old Baiyyappanahalli community in the urban context An example of one such community is located in the Old Baiyyappanahalli area of Bangalore city. Located behind the Swami Vivekananda metro station, the residents of this community mainly consist of migrants from Tamil Nadu who had initially squatted on the land due to the absence of affordable housing in the city. Over the years, the community, with the help of various CSOs (Civil Society Organizations) have been successful in attaining allotment rights over the land occupied, and accessing basic infrastructure such as water and electricity. Although they do not hold possession rights over the land, members of this community have been provided with stable tenure, and hence are able to construct permanent houses without the constant fear of eviction. Income levels of members of this community range between Rs. 25,000 – Rs. 50,000 per month, and hence they can be qualified under the EWS category, as per definitions of the Government of India. 5
5Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, 2015, viewed 6th March, 2018
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Figure 2: Permanent Migrant Slum Community (Old Baiyyappanahalli) However, the quality of such houses are very poor, and lack basic ventilation and lighting, due to the small areas of land allotted to each household. The lack of technical knowledge on house construction is one of the major challenges that members of this community face while constructing houses. The second major gap in housing in permanent slum communities is the lack of access to affordable housing finance, due to lack of proper income and land documents. The general trend observed in this community was lending from local moneylenders at exorbitant interest rates that largely resulted in lifelong debts.
Temporary (Averagely Vulnerable)
The second category being discussed in this paper is that of temporary communities who have migrated to urban areas more recently in search of livelihood opportunities. A large percentage of members of this category are employed in the construction industry as informal workers. The nomadic nature of their work (based on location of construction sites) results in temporary houses constructed in close proximity to livelihood opportunities, and are made using materials such as plastic sheets. The lack of affordable rental housing results in squatter settlements that can be mapped to peri-urban areas of Bengaluru city where a large amount of construction is underway due to recent development.6
6Datta, Pranati, 2006, Urbanization in India, Regional and Sub-Regional Population Dynamic Population Process in Urban Areas, European Population Conference
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Figure 3: Footprint of Thubrahalli community in the larger urban context
One example of a temporary migrant community can be found in the Thubarahalli area located near Marathahalli in Bangalore. The community consists of about 300-400 households who have constructed temporary houses on an empty plot of land. This particular community is an example of a low-cost rental housing model, as the landowner collects a rent of about Rs. 250- 400 per month from every household. This results in a mutually profitable agreement, and the risk of eviction is mitigated to a certain extent, when compared to pure squatter settlements. Monthly household incomes of members of this community was documented to be between Rs. 12,000 – Rs. 15,000 on an average.
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Figure 4: Temporary Migrant Slum Community (Thubrahalli) The housing requirements of temporary migrant communities can be narrowed down to two categories. The first requirement pertains to the recognition of squatter settlements as legal holdings. This will help in formalizing rental agreements between private landlords and slum dwellers. This would then enable enable such communities to gain access to basic infrastructure such as water and electricity, as was the case in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.7
The second issue is regarding the lack of rental housing in urban areas that are affordable to low-income groups. Rental rates in Bangalore urban areas start from a minimum of Rs. 3000, hence families would have to manage the remaining monthly household expenses with Rs. 9000 – Rs. 12,000, which would be a difficult task considering expenses in the city. Additionally, there would also be the burden of an enormous upfront deposit that house owners in Bangalore collect from their tenants, which is usually an amount equivalent to 10 months of rent. Thus, the lack of regularization of the rental market, particularly in the interests of low-income families who have temporarily migrated is another issue that would have to be addressed by the state at the policy level.
7 Mahila Housing SEWA Trust, a CSO headquartered in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, was successful in approaching the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation to convince them to provide slum communities with basic infrastructure such as water and electricity.
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Homeless (Most Vulnerable)
The third category of urban migrants is that of homeless people who typically live in very vulnerable conditions, usually on footpaths and pavements. The sources of income for this group are highly unpredictable, usually generated from begging or other informal sources, resulting in extremely temporary living spaces. An example of this can be seen in the Kalasipalaya market located in central Bangalore, where hundreds of people can be found living in pavement settlements. The average income of a family living in such extremely vulnerable conditions was documented to be about Rs. 3000- Rs. 6000 per month.
With an income that is less than the minimum required for a family to run a household in urban Bangalore, the housing needs of this group of migrants need to be addressed on priority. Considering that these families live in extremely vulnerable conditions, there is an additional responsibility of rehabilitation and skill development on the government, which would enable such households to increase their income. Hence, affordable temporary shelters in central areas, which are in close proximity to livelihood opportunities are the need of the hour. Policy Interventions This paper shall provide an overview of 3 schemes/policies, namely, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), Draft National Urban Rental Policy and the National Urban Livelihood Mission, which respectively aim to address issues of permanent, temporary and homeless communities in India.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, 20148 The PMAY scheme aims to address housing issues in India by enabling house ownership through 4 verticals. Through the In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation (ISSR) vertical, slums that have been identified by the Urban Local Body (ULB) shall be reconstructed into high-rise buildings, and the project shall be cross-subsidized through commercialization of the remaining land. The second vertical (Affordable Housing in Partnership) is a supply-side intervention that aims to construct affordable housing in urban areas that shall be sold to LIG and EWS beneficiaries at a subsidized rate, through a PPP model. The 3rd vertical of the PMAY is the Credit-Linked Subsidy, which is a demand side intervention. Eligible LIG and EWS beneficiaries receive an interest subsidy of 6.5% on a maximum loan of Rs. 6 lakhs, which can be used either for housing construction or purchase. The fourth vertical, Beneficiary-Led Construction provides a gap funding of Rs. 1.5 lakhs for beneficiaries to construct houses on their own plots of land.
Analysing the needs of a permanent community such as Old Baiyyappanahalli under the lens of the PMAY provides the following insights:
8Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, 2015, viewed 6th March, 2018
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1. The community would be unwilling to go ahead with the first vertical, as incremental expansion of houses has already occurred over the past 30 years, and 1BHK units would not be sufficient to accommodate the large families. 2. The community is not eligible under the second vertical to purchase subsidized housing. 3. The financial needs of the community are not getting addressed through the CLSS vertical, as Housing Finance Institutions are unwilling to provide funding due to lack of land ownership. Hence, members of such communities are forced to access alternative and significantly more expensive sources of housing finance. 4. The lack of land papers makes communities such as Old Baiyyappanahalli ineligible for subsidy under the BLC vertical of the PMAY.
Draft National Urban Rental Policy, 20159 The Draft National Urban Rental Policy has rightfully identified the migrant population as the one that requires maximum housing in cities. It has also addressed the link that is significantly missing from the earlier PMAY – not all migratory households look to own houses in the city. Most migrant families own land/property in rural areas, and are only looking at migration as a temporary means to earn income. Thus, the significance of rental housing becomes all the more prominent in the context of supply of affordable housing. The provision of affordable rental housing close to livelihood opportunities can curb the formation of future slums to a large extent.
The policy also addresses issues of rent control, and the need to develop a profitable market around rental housing. It also states that poor households in urban areas pay an average of 30% of their incomes towards housing, and receive no incentives for the same, which is not the case with middle and higher income groups. The policy aims to address the issues of migrant households through various interventions such as developing social rental housing, provision of need based housing for various vulnerable groups such as trans genders, widows, students, etc, and also by addressing the issues of vacant houses that could be bought into the rental housing market. However, the policy remains at the draft stage, hence implementation issues cannot be assessed at the moment.
National Urban Livelihood Mission10 The Draft National Urban Rental Policy provides directives to the NULM for provision of housing for the homeless. The mission document provides guidelines for ULBs to set-up and operate night shelters that could accommodate the homeless population in their respective jurisdictions. However, the document focuses majorly on the guidelines for construction of night shelters, rather than the sociological factors associated with it. Homeless families at this level of vulnerability would require assistance and an elaborate hand-holding process that would enable
9Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, National Rental Housing Policy (Draft), 2015, viewed 6th March, 2018 10Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, NULM Mission Document, 2015, viewed 6th March, 2018
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them to enter the mainstream livelihood and housing market, and night shelters should ideally act as a temporary space for accommodation. Also, the location of night shelters, particularly in large urban centres such as Bangalore, is crucial. Although this has been addressed to a certain level in the document, it does not provide details on process of rehabilitation of the homeless population in the case where shelters are located at a distance from their current place of stay. Additionally, it has been observed that the mission has not yet been implemented in Karnataka, and the money for the same is yet to be released. Conclusion The first step towards addressing issues of housing within low-income migrant communities is to understand the heterogeneous nature of the group. Although the 3 policy side interventions aim to address the needs of the 3 groups of migrant communities that have been identified in this paper, there is a lack of understanding of the on-ground realities and difficulties faced by the target segment.
There is an urgent need to provide formal tenure rights to migrant communities that have been allotted land in urban areas, and are nearing permanency. This would enable them to access affordable housing finance, and avail subsidies under government policies. With regard to rental housing, the demand exists undeniably, and governments need to push the policy towards implementation on a priority basis. With regard to the homeless population, the document needs to be revisited from a sociological perspective, to incorporate the actual needs of beneficiaries, and implement a sustainable process of rehabilitation.
About the author Meghna graduated from the School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal in 2015 (B.Arch). Her final year thesis titled “Redevelopment of BDD Chawls, Mumbai” explored how social and spatial characteristics of chawls could be retained in new housing designs, and was presented at the World Town Planning Day Conference, 2015. She was the recipient of the runners-up prize in the Berkeley Essay writing competition, 2015 for her essay titled “Vermillion of Hope”. She has attended a one- month certification course in Urban Planning at Aalto University, Finland. She previously worked with Selco Foundation where her focus area was on the housing needs of urban migrant communities in Bangalore. Currently she is a Program Manager at Indian Housing Federation where she is conducting a documentation of housing requirements of low-income communities in Bangalore, and across India. She was also a contributing author for Vowels India magazine where her articles focussed on pertinent urban issues.
Email. [email protected] Acknowledgement I would like to thank all the employees and staff members at SELCO Foundation and Indian Housing Federation for their assistance in gathering the data that was required for this paper.
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Understanding Social Inclusion – Alka Arora Abstract Everyone has the Right to the City as declared by UN which means everyone in the city has a right to the good a city has to offer which is work, growth, prosperity and a good life. But most of the world’s most populous cities have almost 50% of their people with no choice but to live in settlements without basic services that have unhygienic slum like conditions. This is also the most visible form of social exclusion.
The paper attempts to understand the phenomenon of Social Inclusion. It is also important to know if it is quantifiable and if there are ways to quantify the impact of being inclusive on the wellbeing and productivity of people in our cities. While there may be few legal instruments to enforce exclusion Architecture has often been used by control groups in subtle and sometimes in obvious ways to make public spaces inaccessible to those people who are not of their own kind. We need to explore further as to how we can as Built environment professionals through Architecture, Urban design or Planning address social sustainability effectively .Can we contribute to the creation of social equality and inclusion and create Public spaces that by their very construct are accessible to all?
Key Words - Inclusion, equity, exclusion
Introduction Equity in distribution of social and economic resources remains a great challenge globally, and more so for new emerging economies that have been urbanizing rapidly. With increasing populations and dwindling scarce natural resources such as land or water, sharing and tolerance for ‘‘others ‘` will truly be a rare commodity the world over. Then again social exclusion is hardly a new phenomenon. It has been there for centuries and has existed universally in some form or the other .We may well ask if total Inclusion and thereby equity even possible or is it too Utopian a concept.
What is social exclusion?
As a studied phenomenon social exclusion grew with scientific discoveries in Europe due to innovations in the process of manufacturing which led to an industrial revolution in the eighteenth century in the midlands of Europe. New societal thinking and behaviour influenced by the French revolution and philosophers such as Karl Marx also helped break down the earlier hierarchies of feudal systems based on land ownership. People who were earlier engaged in agricultural and cottage industries migrated to cities often leaving their families behind, attracted by the possibilities of finding constant and better paid work in the factories. The migration caused break down of age old feudal systems besides congestion, unhygienic living conditions in the cities that led to disease and social tensions. This was what is recorded as the first phase
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of urbanization. Around this period the need arose for the science of sociology that primarily focused on understanding urban social issues created by hordes of people migrating to urban areas.
Today with rapid urbanization with almost 55% of the world population living in urban areas, a proportion that is expected to increase to 68% by 2050 (2018 Revision of World Urbanization Prospects UN DESA -2018). Consequentially social disintegration has reached unprecedented levels and will grow further over the years as has been acknowledged by Sociologists. What causes social isolation? The flip side of rapid urbanization is migration of people to urban areas due to agrarian distress or better livelihood opportunities. This is causing huge numbers of homeless in cities. About 2 percent of the world’s population which is no less than 150 million today are homeless ( Habitat, 2015),In India 1.77 million homeless people, or 0.15% of the country's total population, according to the 2011 census they could be slum dwellers without adequate housing consisting of single men, women, mothers, the elderly, and the disabled. These may be poor migrant workers, people displaced due to lack of economic activity in their areas or even people whose lands have been taken away for large infrastructure projects and who are now on the lookout for work in urban areas.
Other reasons are forced displacement due to natural disasters exacerbated by climate change .The increased number of events leading to displacements which may well be over 140 million by the year 2050 (WB report , 2018). Almost 66 million have been displaced due to civil war and terrorism sometimes migration of entire communities (CSIS , 2018) .Whether it is the State itself or communities that call the shots there are swathes of people from many regions of the world today fleeing persecution in their own homelands and looking for new moorings. As we have seen in the case of Syria where nearly 6 million which was almost half of its population turned into political refugees in a short span of time. Chilling photographs of stranded boats carrying hordes of helpless people with their families fleeing war and destruction being refused entry by other countries .One planet for all humanity .However the planet with its common resources is divided into many countries with miles and miles of fencings and international boundaries.
The displaced groups not only lose their livelihoods and homes but face a risk of non- assimilation in their new habitats. They are vulnerable to being left behind economically in both rich and poor countries. As a consequence they are precluded from enjoying full participation in the advantages of health, education and social networks in their adopted countries. (Leaving no one behind, 2016)
Factors such as age, gender, caste, ethnicity, belief system or religion, race or disability status are attributes beyond anyone’s control. These attributes can become their Identities causing social isolation or being excluded by the majority group. People having a certain lifestyle or low income levels can become socially marginalized and be relegated to fringes of social networks. There are demographic groups with multiple intersecting identities that may be excluded by society from the formal areas of the city.
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In the 1960’s M.N.Srinivas a social anthropologist and sociologist conducted pioneering studies of Indian villages. He theorized that caste based exclusion in India may be dulled with rapid urbanization with people moving away from their villages entrenched in social systems based on caste hierarchy .However the hopes were belied. The anonymity that a city offers also casts them into the categories of slum residents as part of the hordes of unstable homeless informal settlers. They fall into the category of “Others” or outsiders who cannot be easily trusted. So effectively the poor migrants still suffer societal exclusion all be it of a different kind from the rigid caste system they had experienced earlier. Cities are divided on the basis of areas of people having basic services or not having basic services.
Social exclusion may be understood as an extension of the concept of the in-group and out- group .Sometimes its manifested behavior may be as subtle as not making eye contact or it could be very expressive by employing physical barriers and making areas out of bounds for certain groups. It signals social exclusion from the mainstream l causing hurt to the excluded person’s self esteem with physical exclusion from the public realm depending on what spaces are allowed for them and their families to live, work and play in . It may extend to exclusion form specific trades or jobs or use of other social infrastructure.
Feedback from groups to questionnaires such as below may be used to assess exclusion. If answers to any of the following questions are in the negative it is one way to identify social exclusion.
Do they the migrants experience a sense of belonging?
Do they have valued roles and are actively participating in the community?
Do they have social relationships with others whom they choose and share common interests with?
Why is social inclusion necessary?
And the corollary to the question is what could be the consequences of social exclusion.
Poor migrant workers and slum residents and their families apart from requiring political representation and legal standing rights require to be recognised and given accessibility to the common spaces, services and facilities. Exclusion also translates into loss of opportunities for the excluded group in turn limiting economic growth and prosperity leading to loss of productivity.
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Figure 5 framework for social inclusion, source: Inclusion Matters, World Bank Report 2013
Socially as per a Report of Collingwood Environmental Planning sponsored by ICLEI “having access to and using shared, green public spaces and wider green infrastructure can contribute to increased social cohesion and reduced social tension. It also ensures social order and reductions in inequalities; and enhances bonds of trust, shared social and cultural norms, social networks, social capital, social solidarity, place identity and attachment to their communities”. This leads to improved productivity, prosperity and happiness for all.
Social inclusion could therefore be defined as, “The process of improving the ability, opportunity and dignity of the disadvantaged on the basis of their identity to take part in the society.”(WB report 2013) Can social inclusion be measured? Does Inclusion mean only tolerance? But then mere tolerance is not enough if it has to translate into real social cohesion. There has to be an unconditional acceptance of the others’ beliefs and a basic right to practice one’s belief systems as long as there is no infringement of the others’ rights. Haas institute at Berkley published an Inclusivity report for all countries in 2016 and
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subsequently again in 2017 .The attempt is to develop a multifactor Inclusiveness index to understand the degree of marginality and also to identify policies, interventions, and other levers that ameliorate marginality and promote inclusivity and equity. The Global Inclusiveness map shows at a scale of 100 Netherlands topping at 100..0 and India at 27.06.
With Mexico and Bangladesh faring many ranks better. Here is a brief description of the indicators adopted for the Global Inclusiveness Report. 1. Out group Violence Animus towards certain groups makes them vulnerable and often results in Disproportionate violence .As can be witnessed in the acts lynching and ethnic cleansing and genocide of entire tribes as extreme manifestations around the world. 2. Rate of incarceration Often state oppression against minority group is witnessed. Differences in incarceration of the majority and marginalized groups may reflect cultural or social prejudices and percept ions of those subgroups and their relative social position in the society. 3. Political representation Democracy can allow for the majority outplaying the minority groups’ women or religious or racial minorities. This results in under representation of the marginalized groups in electoral politics with cascading effect on lopsided policy making favouring the majority. 4. Inequality of incomes Easily the most visible of indicators disparity in incomes leads to unequal distribution and accessibility to social infrastructure and economic opportunities resulting in segregation of social networks. The degree of inequality is often a function of the country’s political institutions, cultural norms and law. 5. Presence of anti-discriminatory laws The need to have anti discriminatory laws is indicative of the existence of a problem of discrimination that has to be taken care of. With a law such as this a certain amount of protection is provided to the vulnerable minority group. It also reflects on the society’s constitutional provisions and intentions adhere to norms of equality and justice. 6. Immigration and Asylum policies. Exclusion acts and Blanket bans on certain ethnic groups is a marker of parochialism and insular societies. It reflects lack of values of openness and inclusiveness of a society .It shows as to how out groups would feel welcome or non-welcome by the dominant group.
Also some other indicators such as -Social Hostilities Index (SHI), Government Restrictions Index (GRI) and Disability leading to income inequality are being explored to find out the levels of inclusivity. The report concludes that while cities are where the problems are most visible cities are part of the solution. Political opportunists use the opportunity to stoke fears of demographic change and create further discontent by arguing that resources of the state will
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have to be shared just to consolidate their own political power however dividing the people in the process.
Who does the city belong to? First expressed by Henri Lefebvre’s The Right to the City, has been used often in the sense of human rights and access to urban resources.
Right to city has been declared by UN is a basic human right. It is a concept by which all city dwellers are citizens; it creates an ecosystem in which citizens can define their needs and in order to have substantive citizenship, they should have rights of participation and allow others the same rights [1].
An Inclusive city is for all; not only for those who belong to a particular race, caste, region, religion or belief system , life style, gender ,income group, or any other identity.
Conclusion With Climate change and consequential sea levels rising we will witness mass migration in the world causing social tension due to competition for resources .The prejudice against poor migrants will escalate social tensions and lower levels of acceptance of the outsiders. The UN mandates that all countries should have shared goals of ending extreme poverty and sharing prosperity to ensure happiness and well -being of its people.
The Built Environment professionals have a huge role to play in creating happy sustainable communities with well-designed Public realms.
Inclusive cities should have Public spaces to accommodate formal and informal social interaction along with green hubs for communities, Public spaces that by their very construct ensure accessibility to all.
The way forward is to explore how can we as Built Environment professionals address social sustainability effectively .Can we contribute to the creation of social equality and reduce social isolation and improve mental wellbeing of people.
References
1. Indias’ urban awakening: Building Inclusive cities; sustaining economic growth . MGI report 2010. 2. World Bank. 2013. Inclusion Matters: The Foundation for Shared Prosperity. New Frontiers of Social Policy; https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/handle/10986/16195. 3. Leaving no one behind.www.un.org/esa/socdev/rwss/2016/full-report.pdf. 4. Urban planning and human; health in the European city. 5. Haasinstitute.berkeley.edu/inclusivenessindex. 6. Oscar Newman “Design Guidelines for Creating Defensible Space”
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About the Author
An academic , she is currently involved as a faculty for the undergrad program for architecture also has been a design consultant for many years in the industry .
She was Involved in the designing of the New Tehri township of Tehri Hydel Dam project built to Rehabilitate people uprooted from their indigenous historic town due to its submergence under water with the construction of the dam. She notes that her interactions with the residents of the old Tehri town to plan neighborhoods sensitized her to the social needs of the people .The exercise revealed the many layers that go into the making of a city beyond the physical plan that planners and designers cocooned in the design studios need to recognize.
She has led Studio exercises for Urban revitalization of Mehrauli and Urban villages of Noida and Shahpur Jat in New Delhi.The studies highlighted the dynamics of a city reflected in its changing morphology and the relationships between its formal and informal elements .
She is presently researching on designing cities in the Indian context.
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Sustainable Building Interiors: Review of its adverse effects – Aprajita Singh
Abstract
This review aims to highlight the adverse effects that new age, trends or materials such as sustainable design have on the health of end user. There are a number of modern practices and materials which are being put to use these days, mostly due to clients’ demands. The paper will bring forth the negative impacts such sustainable practices and materials might have, the nitty- gritties that get over-looked, especially on the health of diverse demographic building occupants inclusive of special needs .While a number of retailers are selling their products as sustainable and energy conserving, there are countries that have banned such materials. While a particular material has been deemed unsafe for use in toys, it is being used as safe building material. Another instance is that of advertising the use of a particular type of lighting, which may lead to ophthalmological defects. Following this trend, various academic and commercial institutions are replacing their in-use light fixtures with this new age lighting technology. In the name of sustainability, materials and technologies are being sold without proper quality checks. While better quality products exist, there are cheaper versions which are using low grade chemical compositions and end up polluting the indoor air to an extent that it may lead to sick building syndrome.
Keywords: Sustainable building material, health hazards, carcinogens, fly ash bricks, LED lighting, fiber boards, gypsum drywalls
Introduction The sustainable design in building construction encompasses the various aspects of an environmentally resource efficient structure through its life cycle, starting from the design stage, construction, operation, its maintenance and renovation to final demolition. The sustainable building interiors potentially reduce energy usage by more than 80% with the integration of services like lighting, water supply, sewage, heating/cooling and waste disposal whilst utilizing alternative energy sources and retaining energy through efficient thermal and sound insulation and employing green practices of recycle, reuse and reduce and use of sustainable building materials (Hayles, 2015; Fisk and Rosenfeld, 1997).To incorporate sustainable techniques in building industry various green building policies, codes and zoning bylaws are being developed in line to the various rating system such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Green Rating for Integrated Habitat (GRIHA) and Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) followed all over the world. Although these
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rating systems were envisioned originally as voluntary programs which have today become mandatory building requirements under these strategies.
In this review, I discuss the various contaminants that result in health adversaries, alternatives for which sustainable building materials were designed to void such effects. Unfortunately, these materials come with their own set of vices which are the main goal of this study here and discussed in detail with respect to fly ash bricks, Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting, (recycled) fiber boards and gypsum wallboard. Adversaries of conventional built environments Sick building syndrome (SBS) is referred by experts to be non-specific afflictions that are experienced by building occupants with symptoms that include headache, nausea, inflamed mucous membrane, watery eyes, itchy skin or allergies etc. This is a known factor to reduce work efficiency and also increase absenteeism. Studies have identified the possible causes of SBS as listed in Table1 resulting in above hazardous symptoms. Various contaminants have been identified that are resultant of outdoor pollutants like lead, asbestos, dust, motor vehicle exhaust to enter through windows and vents. And the indoor sources include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are sourced from paints upholstery, carpeting etc. (Joshi, 2008).
Table1. Possible causes of SBS (modified from Joshi, 2008) Issues Causes
Contamination Exposure to chemical or other toxic agents generated within the interior space, e.g., methyl alcohol from a spirit duplicator, metha-crylate from a (inside) copier, sulfur dioxide from a heating system, amines used in a humidification system, chlordane used as a pesticide, besides various paints and cleaners. Problems from the material used for furnishing the interiors. e.g., formaldehyde, VOC, etc,.
Contamination Exposure to a chemical or other toxic substance originating from a source outside the building, e.g., motor vehicle exhaust fumes, construction activity, (outside) underground petrol spillage
Inadequate Symptoms may be due to low levels of multiple contaminants and/or poor ventilation ventilation
Indoor Air Problems due to a reaction to microorganisms and dust mites in the environment of the building interior.
Also, the harmful fumes from adhesives used in manufactured wood products contribute to contamination. The biological contaminants comprise of pollen, molds, viruses, bacteria etc. These can be found in stagnant water that accumulates in humidifiers, ducts and drain pipes. In addition, inadequate ventilation traps air pollutants which exponentially increase thereby reducing indoor air quality (USEPA, 1991).
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The aim for sustainable design practices is to improve the occupants’ health and this is becoming an immensely valuable reason to adapt in building construction. The current scenario of sustainable interiors combines sustainable building interior design practices and attainment of energy efficiency that is certified by competent authority as the main focus. Thus, sustainable interiors are becoming a label or maybe just a marketing tool. Emphasis of sustainable interiors must have the intention of maximizing energy efficiency with optimization in design thus, enhancing positive user comfort and behavior. Sustainable materials causing health hazards Recent media coverage have indicated that increase of toxicity in building materials due to the reuse and recycle of industrial byproducts and waste, also known as green building materials are a grave concern of health abnormalities. For instance, Reuters news article on “Energy efficient green buildings may emit hazardous chemicals” gave insight on this important issue based on a study and interview recently conducted by Dodson et.al., (Dodsonet.al.,2017; Reuters, 2017). Such recent studies and articles imply new era of health concerns due to sustainable materials. Hence, a dire need to examine whether the application of sustainable building material incites an unhealthy environment (Isninet.al.,2013). Below are discussed a few examples of green building elements in detail that are regularly applied in energy efficient sustainable buildings. Fly ash bricks The United States Green Building Council’s LEED rating system recognizes this post-industrial recycled material – fly ash as a green building material (LEED, 2002).However, The United States Environment Protection Agency had pushed to reclassify fly ash –a coal combustion byproduct as a hazardous material (Horwitz-Bennet, 2015). Further, according to the Environmental Protection Agency the Constituents of Potential Concerns (COPCs) of fly ash bricks include 23 carcinogens like lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, chromium, aluminum, nickel, thallium, zinc, uranium, vanadium and possible route of human exposure as described in Figure 1. Below (EPA, 2014).
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Fig1. A model of fly ash contamination as proposed by the EPA, 2014
Also, fly ash bricks releases radon which is linearly proportional to the surface of the brick at an average concentration of 277±13Bqm-3 (Liu et. al., 2009; Chauhan et. al.,2003). Additionally, Chauhan et. al., further concluded in their study that fly ash as a building material should be discouraged as radon levels in fly ash brick were higher in comparison to traditional dwellings. The toxicants can cause heart, lung and respiratory disorders as well as diminished growth in children and in severe cases may cause cancer and nervous system impairment (Chauhan et. al., 2003). Gypsum Dry Wall Gypsum dry wall is recognized as green building material as certified by LEED and used as component of various building areas for instance dry wall, false ceiling and furnishing interiors. However, due to low water resistance it is ideal for mold and mildew growth leading to respiratory diseases (EPA, 2014). Additionally, major compounds that make up gypsum include talc, mica, calcite and silica which may again lead to respiratory conditions ranging from airway irritation to asthma in severe cases (NIOSH, 1999). A gypsum wall exposure schematic diagram as proposed by EPA is depicted in Figure 2 below.
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Fig2. Proposed Schematic exposure of gypsum dry wall by EPA, 2014
Fiber board Insulating constructions using recycled fiber board that can be used for both residential and commercial spaces. These products are an integral part of furnishings and furniture in interior built environment (EPA, 2002). Fiber boards contain chemicals that emit VOCs which have been found to be toxic to the building occupant. The fiber board consists of urea formaldehyde, resin glue, wood fiber and water (CDC/ATSDR, 2016). The material formaldehyde is a strong smelling colorless and water soluble gas. According to a public announcement by the Agency for toxic substances and disease registry in 2008 warned that exposure to formaldehyde causes the occupants to experience certain health adversaries such as nausea, burning sensation in the eyes, nose and throat as well as skin irritation (ATSDR, 2008). Also, the International Agency for Research on Cancer and “the 12th report on carcinogens” by the Department of Health and Human Services have classified formaldehyde as human carcinogens (USDHHS, 1999). Light emitting Diode A Light emitting Diode emits energy once electricity is passed through in the form of light. The LEDs are said to contain very high concentrations of nickel and copper, these are known allergens to individuals (Lim et. al., 2011). As they do not contain mercury and consume less energy compared to Compact Fluorescent Lights making LED an eco-friendly choice instead of light bulb (Lim et. al., 2011). An article published in a reputed newspaper The Hindu, the LED light’s exposure is set to disrupt human body’s ability to produce a sleep inducing hormone melatonin. Melatonin is responsible for maintaining body’s clock rhythm. Additionally, as a known fact, the light emitted through mobiles and laptops are disruptive because of its short wavelength alerting our brains to stay awake. Further, the flickering effects of LEDs are leading to health issues like headaches, migraines, specifically straining of the eyes leading to retinal damage (Jaadane et. al., 2015). The flickering is the fluctuation as the LED switch on and off at very high speeds causing the user to feel distracted and uncomfortable (Wilkins et. al., 2014). Conclusions The green building standards should be more comprehensive about improving occupant’s health than just rating on the basis of energy efficiency.Various potentially hazardous green building materials are out weighing the benefits of being utilized as recycled materials. Even though according to EPA sustainable materials such as fly ash and gypsum board detectable limits are lower than the recommended limits, these are still detectable and the limits are set by
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the EPA not taking into consideration a longitudinal study. A green design enthusiast should not be ready to sacrifice indoor air quality to practice environmentally friendly energy efficient building interior construction practices. Hence, it is imperative to take steps that help in protecting the end user from the potential sustainable building hazards.
References Hayles, C.S., (2015). Environmentally sustainable interior design: A snapshot of current supply of and demand for green, sustainable or Fair Trade products for interior design practice. Int. J. Sustainable Built Environment 4(1):100-108 Fisk, W.J., Rosenfeld, A.H., (1997). Estimates of improved productivity and health from better indoor environments.Indoor Air 7(3), 158-172 Joshi SM, (2008). The sick building syndrome.Indian J Occup Environ Med12(2):61-64 USEPA, (1991). Indoor Air Facts No. 4 (revised)Sick Building Syndrome. Air and Radiation (6609J).Available from: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/sub.html-29k- Isnin, Z., Ahmad, S.S., and Yahya, Z., (2013). Lessons Learned From Exposure to Building Materials. Procedia- Social and Behavioral Sciences85:128–138 Dodson, R.E., Udesky, J.O., Colton, M.D., McCauley, M., Camann, D.E., Yau, A.Y., Adamkiewicz, G. and Rudel, R.A., (2017).Chemical exposures in recently renovated low- income housing: Influence ofbuilding materials and occupant activities. Environment International. 109:114-127 Reuters, (2017).Available from: https://in.reuters.com/article/us-health-homes-air- quality/energy-efficient-green-buildings-may-emit-hazardous-chemicals- idINKCN1BU2AX Leed, (2002). Interpretation ID#5559 Available from:https://www.usgbc.org/content/li- 5559 Horwitz-Bennet, B., (2015).The truth about Flyash. [Online] February 16th 2015. Available from:https://www.greenbuildermedia.com/buildingscience/author/barbara- horwitz-bennet EPA, (2014).Coal Combustion Residual Beneficial Use Evaluation: Fly Ash Concrete and FGD Gypsum Wallboard.Available from: https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2014-12/documents/ccr_bu_eval.pdf Liu. H., Banerji, S.K., Burkett, W. J. and VanEngelenhoven, J., (2009). Environmental Properties of Fly Ash Bricks.Proceeding from 2009 World of Coal Ash (WOCA) Conference- May 4-7, 2009 in Lexington, KY, USA.Available from:http://www.flyash.info/ Chauhan, R.P., Kant, K., Sharma, S.K., and Chakravati, S.K. (2003).Measurement of alpha radioactive air pollutants in fly ash brick dwellings.Radiation Measurements.36: 533-536 NIOSH, (1999).Control of Drywall Sanding Dust Exposures.DHHS (NIOSH) Publication Number 99-113 Available From: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/99-113/default.html EPA, (2002).Emission Factors. Available From: https://www3.epa.gov/ttnchie1/ap42/ch10/final/c10s0604.pdf
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ATSDR, (2008).Public Health Statement for Formaldehyde. Available From: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/phs/phs.asp?id=218&tid=39 USDHHS, (1999).Toxicological profile forformaldehyde by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Available from: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp111.pdf CDC/ATSDR (2016) Possible health implications from exposure to formaldehyde emitted from laminate flooring samples tested by the consumer product safety commission, National Center for Environmental Health. https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/laminateflooring/docs/laminate-flooring-report-3-22- 2016_508.pdf Lim, SR., Kang, D., Ogunseitan, O.A. and Schoenung, J.M., (2011). Potential Environemntal Impacts of Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs): Metallic Resources, Toxicity and Hazardous Waste Classification.Environ. Sc. Technol. 45(1):320-327 Jaadane, I., Boulenguez, P., Chahory,S., Carre,S., Savoldelli,M., Jonet, L., Cohen, FB., Martinsons, C., Torriglia, A., (2015). Retinal damage induced by commercial light emitting diodes (LEDs). Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 84:373-384 Wilkins, A., Veitch J. and Lehman, B., (2014). LED Lighting Flicker and Potential Health Concerns: IEEE Standard PAR1789 Update. Conference paper IEEE Standards Association Available From : http://grouper.ieee.org/groups/1789/
About the Author APRAJITA SINGH
Assistant Professor, Amity School of Design Amity University, NOIDA
With more than ten years of teaching and industry experience in the field of Interior Design and having completed Masters in Green Buildings and Bachelors in Design from SRM University, Chennai, it has been an endeavor to promote the students to generate a vision in them for sustainable built environment. Along with academics, I have worked as freelance Interior designer for office and commercial spaces.
Email: [email protected]
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Urban farming: edible landscape for sustainable cities – Kamini Singh, Anant Pratap Singh
Abstract The urban population of India is projected to double up by 2050, and will constitute more than half of total Indian population. Cities are expanding continuously to accommodate this growing population and eating up on our agricultural lands. There is huge shift in livelihood with proportionately lesser number of people involved in agrarian work. In such a scenario there is a need to reduce the dependency on rural agricultural produce and develop a city form that is able to cultivate its own food. Also, as the definition of sustainability suggests there is a strong need for interdependence of all life forms and to link agriculture with urban forms of life. This paper intends to develop a framework for incorporation of small and medium sized agriculture into the urban landscapes as well. Each building, neighbourhood and city shall contribute towards reducing the dependency on Rural Agriculture and be self-sufficient in terms of producing perishable items within the city boundaries. The research derives inferences about urban farming as a strategy that contributes towards economic, environmental and social sustainability of urban landscapes in Indian cities.
Key Words: Edible Landscape, Urban Farming, Sustainable Development
1. Introduction ‘Transition to a globalized world is progressing rapidly, but the transition to a sustainable one is not’
(Speth, 2004)
As human transitioned from hunter and gatherer to an agrarian society, communities were established followed by necessary farming to support them. Our ancestors had been cultivating more and building less. The model was based on the production from the field. Once field reaches it saturation and its workable size a new village is formed. This is why we see villages after every 1-5 km in Ganga-Yamuna river plains of India. This system was working wonderfully and our population further flourished. To cater the increased demand for population industrial revolution started, resulting into formation of cities. For the first time place of production and place of consumption were miles apart. Cities do not produce their own food and are dependent on uncontrolled outside source, often resulting into failure of the system and unavailability or low supply of essential food items. This annual condition is alarming us to create a balance between production and consumption and to reduce dependency of external sources for essential, everyday food items.
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Identifying issues Ensuring food security for all is one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that India, along with 192 other countries in the world, is in the process of commitment. This goal (SDG 2) aims to ‘End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture’.
Current per capita food consumption in South Asian countries is 2700 kcal per capita per day and is expected to rise to 2900 kcal per capita per day by 2030. According to report by Mckinsy Global Institute, urban population of 590 Million people will live in cities in India by 2030. 2014 GAP Report estimates that India’s Domestic Production will only meet 59 percent of the country’s food demand by 2030 at the current growth rate of Total Factor Productivity. The situation is alarming seeing the current trend the rate at which our cultivating land in converting, and assuming the rate will increase in future. We have to find a solution within the cities. If every person cultivates we would become food sustainable, in long runs its benefits are huge, there would be less transportation requirement, less fossil fuel burning, food pricing would be low ultimately will makes our planet a better place to live in. Few initiative have already begin in North and South America (Mexico) China and many other countries, where urban farming is done on the streets of city, homes and terraces. But still feel there could be lot which can further be done. Instead of bringing in food to the city let’s bring in farm to the city.
Figure 1: Food Demand Compared to Agricultural Output from TFP Growth in India, 2000-2030, Source: Food demand Index is from Global Harvest Initiative (GHI 2014) Agricultural Output from TFP Growth is from Economic Research Service 2014
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Why Waste Waste: Our Agricultural Systems produce waste at every phase of food system. Large amount of waste is produced in urban Areas and only small part (mostly metal, paper and plastic) is recycled or reused leaving behind a mound of garbage dump as ugly reality of urban life requiring hundreds of years to decompose naturally. Large amount of organic waste extremely suitable as manure and source of bio-energy products is mostly dumped into these landfill sites unlike rural areas where every bit of it is extracted and used as manure, fuel or cattle feed. Not utilizing such an important resource disturbs the balance that exists naturally. Research shows that 20% - 40% of food grown in India end up spoiling before it reaches the consumer. The cycle of food production, consumption and decomposition is disconnected, to reconnect the missing links we need to bring the farms near the source of consumption, in the cities.
Figure 2: Back to Farms, Source: Author
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Beyond Green Buildings towards Green Cities
‘Globalization can and should advance the transition to sustainability’ (Speth, 2004)
Economic development is normally accompanied by improvements in a country’s food supply and the gradual elimination of dietary deficiencies, thus improving the overall nutritional status of the country’s population. Furthermore, it also brings about qualitative changes in the production, processing, distribution and marketing of food. The development and connectivity has made it easier to buy and consume foods from distant locations. Our cities are not only consuming food they are also digesting and disposing it. Small- scale farming also makes it easier to promote organic farming and produce healthy and safe food locally rather than relying on chemical intensive crops. Major changes are needed in our food, agriculture and trade systems, with a shift toward local small-scale farmers. Diversity of farms, reducing the use of fertilizer and other changes are also desperately needed.
The UN World Development Report declares water as mankind’s most serious challenge of 21st century. Nearly 70% of fresh water is used for irrigation and nearly 30% of worlds total energy consumption is used for food sector. Agricultural production consumes energy at every stage of its production from growing, harvesting, processing, distribution and consumption to disposal. Furthermore large amount of prepared food is discarded in urban areas. Efficiency and optimum resource utilization is ignored in lieu of comfort and convenience. Ideally the mouth of consumer should be as close to the growing ingredients as possible but our cities are developing in a completely opposite direction increasing the amount of fuel consumption and food produce loss in transportation.
The land available for core agriculture is reducing gradually and is taken over by urban development. Converting forest and eco-sensitive zones into agriculture will effect adversely to environment. Hence it is required to find space for agriculture within the city boundaries not only by utilizing existing underutilized horizontal spaces but also to go vertical by using existing rooftops or creating multistory farm structures to feed the need of urban population. There are many new concepts where overall resource consumption is much less than traditional farms employed in vertical farms Korea, Gotham Greens Northern Brooklyn, Science Barge New York and many other places.
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Figure 3: Hydroponics and Aeroponics Method for Soilless Farming, Source: BenjamenBuglovsky, Farm Follows Function A solution for urban Farming, 2012
Soilless Farming Water, sunlight and soil as medium to provide minerals and nutrients to farms are required for photosynthesis. Across the globe arable farmland is disappearing, also water is an important resource required which is consumed extensively in agriculture. There are three methods of running a soilless farm:
Hydroponics: Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions dissolved in water without the need of soil where water is continuously recycled through the system and considerably reducing the water consumption to 90%.
Aeroponics: Aeroponics is also a similar technique where water is sprinkled requiring only 60% of water then traditional farming. Since the farming is done under controlled environments the agricultural yields are better.
Roof top Grow containers: Roof tops can be used in multiple ways by combining Solar panels, rain water collection and processing, multilevel rooftop farming using hydroponic techniques and producing a system of green containers on rooftops that facilitate multiple opportunities.
Potential Spaces for Growing Food Most of the Urban Contestations revolve around land. Finding Space for Urban Farming seems to be the biggest challenge and is the easiest opportunity to be explored. TED Lincoln Speaker Tim Rinne while presenting the initiative called ‘Case of Hawleys Hamlet’ was disturbed while reading about climate change and nothing that is being done about it. Hawleys a suburb has large lawn spaces and wide roads with green belts but it was shocking to see that nothing that is
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growing in and around the community is consumable food. Hawleys community converted every possible inch of their neighbourhood into farms and immensely reduced dependency on market products for food. Convert your Lawns into farms; they have demonstrated the Idea by growing food on every inch possible. They call it more than food – its growing community. An inspiring story to learn that each available inch of space with solar access is to be seen as an opportunity to grow is by efforts of Dhananajay Chakrabarty of Kolkata a Taxi Driver takes immense pride in growing saplings in trunk and grass on top of his ambassador taxi. Thus there is no shortage of space if we look at underutilized urban space as an opportunity. City Level spaces • Green belts to grow fruit trees • District parks and eco-zones to reserve patches of agriculture • Land surrounding natural features- water bodies and woodlands • Any space with solar access stationary or mobile • Drain side/sewage farming
Community Level
• Vacant plots • Left-over areas and backyards • Boundary walls to support vegetable creepers • Street edges and dividers • Community parks- less decorative plants and more edible product • Municipal land Building Level • Gardens and lawns • Building terraces and balconies • Terrace and roof top grow containers • Streets: divider, roundabout, fruit tree plantation • Indoor farms
Food for thought To achieve sustainability in true sense every person must contribute positively towards maintenance of food chain and reduce the need to import food from distant villages. Sadly we tend to focus on creating more decorative and less productive landscapes. As Architects, Designers and Planners it is our responsibility towards society to create conducive environments for Practice of self-cultivation of food products.
• Food produced can be distributed locally or sold at low price through distribution kiosks • Incentives, green rating points should be given • Free seeds, plantation and caring can be provided by the government • Green belts shall grow only fruit growing trees • Streets spaces shall be designed for maximum utilization of farming potential
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• Land use to be decided by fertility and topography of land keeping fertile, low lying areas for agriculture • Landscape design should focus more on productive plants and trees • Dedicated orchards, farming gardens instead of theme parks • Buildings projections, Window openings to incorporate planters • Roof top growth containers shall be incorporated as a component of building
Towards a Sustainable Landscape Growing food within Urban Boundaries shall bring in a holistic change in the lifestyle and living environment of urban communities and contribute towards creating a sustainable landscape. The transformation of Urban Communities have already proven to improve Economic, Environmental and Social Conditions of Urban Neighborhood and it is time to incorporate farming at every level of Sustainable Urban Development.
Economic benefit
• Create Employment Opportunities and Livelihood • Reduce Cost of Agricultural Produce due to reduced transportation cost
Environmental benefit
• Increase Green Cover of Urban Areas • Provide Habitat for Flora and Fauna • Recycle and reuse of Solid waste as Manure • Improve quality of Air and Soil, Prevent rain water runoff
Social benefit
• Space and Opportunity for Social Interaction • Sense of ownership in city dwellers by promoting direct link to the city • Devoting time to Farming is also a recreational Activity
References • Anshul S Bhamra and HarshitaBisht Ensuring Food Security for All: Strategies and Options, Development Alternatives, August 2015 • Benjamen Buglovsky, Farm Follows Fuction A solution for urban Farming, Thesis Report, Architecture Savannah College of Art and Design, May 2012 • James Gustave Speth, Globalization and Environment, Globalization and Environmental Challenges: Transition to a Sustainable world, 2004 • Lim, CJ and Ed Liu, Smartcities+eco-warriors, Abingdon England, 2010 • Tamaghna Banerjee, Cool cab with a rooftop garden, The Telegraph, May 17, 2015 • The New UN Farming Report, Wake Up Before It’s Too Late,” “Trade and Environment Review, 2013
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About the Author(s)
• Kamini Singh is an enthusiastic Researcher Designer and Teacher with Master’s Degree in Urban Design from SPA Delhi. She has presented and published many research works and is also into designing graphics. Currently Pursuing PhD from School of Planning and Archtecture, New Delhi and working in School of Architecture, Galgotias University, Uttar Pradesh. Email: [email protected],
• Anant Pratap Singh is a Practicing Architect, Urban Designer and a Teacher. He started his professional carrier as Team Leader for Design Factory India, worked for few consultancy projects. Currently Associated with Department of Architecture, Gautam Budh University, Uttar Pradesh. Email: [email protected],
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School of Architecture Galgotias University G B Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
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