Case Study: DLF Building 7 Achieves TRUE Platinum Certification

DLF Building 7, located in Cyber City, Gurugram, has set a new benchmark in sustainability by achieving the prestigious TRUE Platinum certification, a first for the commercial sector in this region. This certification, administered by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), reflects the collaborative efforts of DLF and Firstgreen Consulting, highlighting their shared commitment to zero waste practices and environmental stewardship.

Challenges: Managing waste effectively in a large commercial space like DLF Building 7 presents unique challenges. The building generates a significant amount of organic and inorganic waste daily, requiring innovative strategies to reduce waste sent to landfills and achieve TRUE Platinum certification.

Solutions:

1. Organic Waste Converters (OWCs): Under the guidance of Firstgreen Consulting, DLF Building 7 installed OWCs to process organic waste on-site, converting it into compost. This initiative significantly reduced the volume of waste transported to landfills and contributed to the building's circular economy by using the compost within the premises.
2. Waste Reduction Efforts: Firstgreen Consulting played a pivotal role in implementing upstream waste reduction strategies, such as collaborating with suppliers to minimize waste generation through sustainable material selection and bulk purchasing. Downstream, they helped establish comprehensive waste segregation systems with strategically placed, clearly marked bins to prevent contamination.
3. Digital Systems: To tackle paper waste, Firstgreen Consulting recommended transitioning to digital entry systems and e-invoicing, which DLF Building 7 successfully implemented. This shift not only reduced paper usage but also enhanced operational efficiency across the building.
4. Recycling Programs for Non-Organic Waste: Firstgreen Consulting assisted in setting up robust recycling programs for non-organic waste, including plastics, metals, and e-waste. Dedicated collection points were established throughout the building, ensuring that these materials were recycled properly rather than ending up in landfills.
5. Green Procurement Policies: With Firstgreen Consulting's expertise, DLF Building 7 adopted green procurement policies that prioritized suppliers using sustainable materials and packaging. This not only reduced waste generation but also encouraged a market shift towards environmentally friendly practices.
6. Employee Engagement Programs: Firstgreen Consulting developed and implemented regular employee engagement programs, including workshops and campaigns, to educate staff on waste reduction practices. These programs fostered a culture of sustainability within the building, ensuring that waste management practices were effectively followed.
7. Water Bottle Elimination: To reduce single-use plastics, Firstgreen Consulting recommended eliminating plastic water bottles from the premises, replacing them with water dispensers, and encouraging the use of reusable bottles among employees and visitors.
8. On-Site Waste-to-Energy Pilot Project: As part of its innovative approach, Firstgreen Consulting helped DLF Building 7 launch a pilot project to convert certain types of non-recyclable waste into energy. This project not only reduced waste but also provided a renewable energy source for the building’s operations.
9. Stringent Waste Management Protocols: Firstgreen Consulting implemented strict waste management protocols, including regular audits to monitor the effectiveness of these strategies. These audits were crucial in maintaining low contamination levels, a key factor in achieving TRUE Platinum certification.
10. Comprehensive Sustainability Training: To ensure long-term success, Firstgreen Consulting conducted comprehensive training for building occupants and employees, emphasizing the importance of waste segregation, reduction, and participation in recycling programs.

Results: These collaborative efforts led to a significant reduction in waste, with exceptionally low contamination levels. Firstgreen Consulting’s regular waste audits and continuous improvement strategies played a crucial role in DLF Building 7 earning the highest level of certification—TRUE Platinum.

DLF Building 7’s TRUE Platinum certification is a testament to the power of strategic waste management and the impact of innovative sustainability practices. This achievement, driven by the expertise and guidance of Firstgreen Consulting, not only enhances DLF’s green portfolio but also sets a new standard for commercial buildings in India. Together, DLF and Firstgreen Consulting are leading the way in creating a sustainable future.

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