The Role of Material Choice in Optimizing Energy-Positivity and Thermal Comfort: An Indian Housing Perspective

Amid rising carbon emissions in the building sector, this research paper explores the interrelated dynamics of thermal and energy efficiency within material selection and its cumulative effect on net carbon emissions in the Indian residential construction sector. The core argument presented is that ineffective material selection and application of construction methodologies, mainly due to the neglect of energy and thermal efficiency, lead to unsustainable consequences. To establish pragmatic relationships, a comparative analysis of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data on net carbon emissions and thermal performance metrics outlined by the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) is detailed in the paper. This comparative analysis will enable the development of a material-centric decision framework. The findings indicate that optimization in construction often remains unaddressed due to the project-specific nature of materials. Referencing guidelines from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), this study explores the limitations and potential of optimization through informed material selection. The findings emphasize the tremendous impact of materials on both local and global environmental scales, urging a life-cycle-based and climate-responsive approach to material selection in sustainable construction.