Designing green buildings comes with its own set of challenges. Not only do important decisions like building orientation, shading, and material selection impact the overall customer experience, but they also play a crucial role in achieving sustainability and efficiency. “For instance, instead of using metal or plywood formwork, developers can utilise recycled plastic formwork for non-critical areas. This decision not only ensures a top-notch concrete finish, but also contributes to the recycling of plastic waste. You can also prioritise the use of eco-friendly organic chemicals in adhesives and jointing compounds, steering clear of harmful traditional polymers that harm our environment. The combination of plastic and luxury may not be typical, but it aligns with global efforts to reduce waste. We are witnessing the rise of responsibly manufactured materials that meet customer expectations. So, developers can incorporate recycled plastic lumber or wood-plastic composite for decking,” explains Rishad Khergamwala, director of a real estate firm.