Through policy advocacy and technical support, IGBC is shaping a future where sustainability is central to Goa’s urban and tourism development
The CII Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), successfully hosted the Green Goa Conclave 2025 last month, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Goa – Panaji. Centered around the theme ‘Building a Greener Goa: Sustainable Solutions for Residential & Hospitality Sectors,’ the conclave brought together key stakeholders from government, industry, and the design community to explore practical strategies for sustainable growth in one of India’s most ecologically rich states.
The inaugural session featured senior leadership from IGBC and CII, including C Shekhar Reddy, National Vice Chair, CII–IGBC; Swati Salgaocar, Immediate Past Chairperson, CII – Western Region Council; Bharat Kamat, Immediate Past Chair, CII–IGBC Goa Chapter; and K. Kula Sekhar, Chair, CII–IGBC Goa Chapter.
Shekar Reddy, National Vice-Chairman, CII Indian Green Building Council, while delivering the special address said, “The Green Goa Conclave is a key moment for Goa’s real estate sector to unite for a sustainable future. With tourism contributing nearly 9.6% to India’s GDP, Goa’s hospitality sector holds great promise, but this growth must be balanced with environmental responsibility. Green Buildings offer energy and water savings, improved air quality, and enhanced occupant well-being. India now has over 15,800 IGBC-registered projects, thanks to strong industry partnerships. CREDAI’s pledge for 80% carbon-neutral development by 2050 and 4,000 green-certified projects by 2030 shows what’s possible. IGBC, through renewed MoUs with CREDAI and the Government of Goa, is committed to providing support and capacity building to make sustainability the norm in Goa.”
As Goa continues to experience rapid growth in its tourism and housing sectors, the conclave addressed the urgent need to integrate environmentally responsible practices into the state’s development trajectory. The event served as a platform for sharing best practices, discussing innovative technologies, and fostering dialogue on policy frameworks that promote climate-resilient infrastructure and green tourism.
K. Kula Sekhar, Chair of IGBC Goa Chapter while addressing the conclave said, “As one of India’s leading tourist destinations, Goa is committed to ensuring that growth in hospitality and housing is sustainable, inclusive, and resilient. With the partnership of Government of Goa and IGBC, the state is paving the way for green building adoption. Recent initiatives like the Build Green Quizathon and a 3-day Green Building Consultant Training reflect our focus on education and awareness. Through strong partnerships with IGBC, the tourism and hospitality sector, and the real estate community, Goa is prepared to set new benchmarks in sustainable urban planning.”
Goa is making strides towards a sustainable built environment, with increasing adoption of green building practices and net-zero principles, particularly in its hospitality sector. While eco-conscious development is gaining momentum, especially among premium hotels and residential projects, challenges like high construction costs, limited awareness, and the need for stronger policy frameworks persist. Organizations like the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) are helping drive this transformation, promoting energy-efficient, water-conserving, and eco-friendly construction. With continued focus on sustainable tourism and urban growth, Goa has the potential to become a model for net-zero development in India.
Swati Salgaocar, Immediate Past Chairperson, CII – Western Region Council said, “The Green Goa Conclave 2025 is a powerful platform to catalyse sustainable growth in our region. It reflects our collective commitment to preserving Goa’s natural heritage while embracing innovative green solutions that can shape a resilient future.” A series of technical sessions followed the inaugural session, spotlighting real-world solutions in areas such as low embodied carbon materials, green luxury real estate, sustainable resorts, water conservation technologies, and the role of sustainable glass and green chemicals. Presentations were delivered by leading voices in the sustainability sector including Sameer Sinha, Immediate Past Chair, IGBC Ahmedabad; M Selvarasu, Managing Director, LEAD Consultancy; Neha Kedia, Project Head, Furaat; Ankur Shah, Promoter and Director, Ethios Group; and Bharat Kamath, Immediate Past Chair, IGBC Goa Chapter.
The event culminated in a dynamic panel discussion on ‘Building a Greener Goa,’ which featured experts such as Rajesh Seth, President of CREDAI Goa; Vertika Dagur, Chief Town Planner of Goa; Carlos D’Souza, MD of de Souza Group and CII Tourism Convener; and Milind Ramani, Principal Architect at Effective Architectural Services. Panelists shared insights into how Goa could become a model for sustainable residential and tourism-based development.
The event witnessed participation from developers, resort owners, architects, urban planners, policy makers, consultants, and green product manufacturers. It concluded with a networking dinner that facilitated further collaboration and knowledge exchange.
With a portfolio of over 15,800 registered projects and a 13.56 billion sq. ft. green footprint, IGBC continues to lead India’s green building movement. The Green Goa Conclave 2025 marked a key step in supporting Goa’s transition to sustainable and climate-smart urban development.
