India, as one of the fastest-growing economies in the country, is facing the dual challenges of rapid urbanization and rising temperatures. With nearly half a billion people living in densely populated cities, the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect has intensified due to the replacement of natural green spaces with built environment and the increasing reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems such as air conditioning. The ‘Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 6th Assessment Report’ highlights the growing vulnerability of Indian cities to heat & humidity, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable cooling solutions. Cool Roofs, designed to reflect solar radiation and reduce heat absorption, are emerging as an efficient, low-cost solution to address this issue. These technologies lower indoor temperatures, enhance thermal comfort, reduce energy consumption and mitigate the UHI effect, making them a vital component of sustainable urban living and climate resilience. Recognized globally, Cool Roof technologies are gaining prominence in India as part of sustainable construction practices.

With an intent to facilitate the government’s initiatives on the adoption of Cool Roof technologies and strategies, GRIHA Council and NRDC India collaborated to spread awareness and promote passive cooling technologies and energy-efficient solutions in the built environment.

As part of the initiative, a half-day “Workshop on Cool Roof Technologies” is being organized on Friday 17th January 2025 at Lemon Tree Hotel, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.

The workshop aims to bring together diverse stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for enhanced adoption of Cool Roof technologies. It will also focus on understanding the benefits of Cool Roofs in improving energy efficiency, reducing the UHI effect and enhancing indoor thermal comfort. The workshop will provide a platform for policymakers, architects, urban planners, researchers, corporate leaders and civil society representatives to engage in interactive discussions. Participants will gain technical insights into cool roof design, materials and implementation processes, alongside strategies for scaling adoption through policy interventions and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The event will also feature successful case studies from India and around the world, highlighting practical applications and outcomes.

We invite you to participate in the workshop and share your insights on promoting the adoption of cool roof technologies across India, thereby contributing to building a sustainable built environment.

Click here for Agenda