Defining the term “Brownfield” in India

Abstract

Brownfields are viewed as an opportunity for sustainable development. Researchers across the world have argued about the benefits of brownfield redevelopment. However, India is still in the initial stages of defining brownfields, as no attempts have ever been made by researchers to define it and no definition is available for it in the Indian context. The main objective of this study is to derive a definition for a brownfield and fill the gap. We used the Delphi technique involving a panel of experts from relevant fields posted in governmental agencies and organizations. A list of eight keywords, derived from the definition of brownfields from various countries, and two keywords recommended by experts were rated in multiple rounds. Statistical validation for the responses was established using gray relational analysis and relative to identified distribution (RIDIT) analysis. A significant finding of this study is the importance given by the Indian experts to the “condition of the land” while attempting to define a brownfield. With a proposed definition “previously used, derelict, or polluted land is identified as a brownfield,” this research represents an attempt to provide further avenues for research on brownfields for sustainable cities in India.