Chandigarh, June 25 -- In a step towards environmentally responsible urban development, Chandigarh has initiated the process of adopting the Energy Conservation and Sustainable Building Code (ECSBC).

Once implemented, any new buildings that come up over 1,000 square metres or above will need to be designed in a way that maximises natural lighting and ventilation, and reduces reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning.

The move is aimed at conserving electricity and water, besides ensuring efficient waste disposal and soil preservation.

Other conditions include thermal insulation of walls, roofs, and windows to maintain indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption. Technologies such as green roofs and vertical gardens wil...