Selection criteria for Energy efficient Building materials in Indias Affordable housing

There are many factors that guide the selection of building materials for housing. The stakeholders of the project - the users, engineers, architects and builders have a decisive role in the selection of material palette. Most of the sustainability criteria focus on environmental impact of the building whereas in housing, there are many other factors like social, economic, technological and perceived sustainability and perceived aesthetics in addition to environmental impact. This study analyses the criteria that guide holistic selection of sustainable materials in affordable housing in India. It also highlights the barriers that prevent and strategies which can accelerate the adoption of energy efficient building materials for affordable housing in India.