Diffusion patterns and drivers of higher-rated green buildings in the Mumbai region, India: a developing economy perspective

ABSTRACT Urban growth and extensive construction in the cities of developing countries raise questions about environmental pollution and resource challenges, along with sustainable techniques to mitigate them. Research in developed economies has concluded that sustainable construction practices and certifications like Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) can help to reduce these effects at a regional level. Metropolitan areas in developing countries, such as the Mumbai region, have had LEED-certified buildings for over a decade, but their drivers and diffusion patterns have not been studied. A regression analysis on the Mumbai's dataset of LEED-certified buildings endorsed diffusion pattern different than hierarchical diffusion of developed economies. Green buildings in the peripheral business district of Navi Mumbai are certified at higher levels than those in the central business district (CBD). Higher-level green buildings in planned outer business districts are attracting tenants from the CBD to Navi Mumbai, especially those in sectors with intensive human-capital needs. The driver for tenants demanding higher-level green buildings is the signalling benefits associated with green buildings. The results establish a linkage between occupant priorities and the type of credits emphasised in the LEED certification process. Mumbai’s higher-rated green buildings have primarily pursued credits from LEED’s Energy and Atmosphere category, signalling superior efficiency.