City Know-hows

Perceptions of design professionals regarding vertical greenery in buildings – A case of Delhi

A green facade with Rangoon creeper in a school building in New Delhi. The use of vertical greenery enhances the urban environment and transforms the city image.

Our study reports on the perceptions of design professionals regarding vertical greenery in Delhi. We discover how this green solution combats climate change and improve liveability in Indian cities.

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Target audience

Built environment professionals, city legislators, policy makers and climate change practitioners.

The problem

The study addresses the issue of underutilization of vertical greenery systems in Indian urban environments, particularly Delhi. Despite their climate change mitigation potential, these systems face resistance from building owners and regulators. A lack of technical expertise among professionals involved in placemaking adds to the challenge. The study underscores the importance of investigating the viewpoints of built environment experts, underscoring the urgency of research and policy development in light of the imminent climate crisis.

What we did and why

For our study, we conducted a qualitative investigation of professionals’ perspectives on vertical greenery systems in Delhi. It seeks to understand the barriers to adoption, especially the technical challenges faced by built environment experts. The research is motivated by the recognition of vertical greenery’s long-term benefits and its potential to mitigate climate change. It aims to shed light on these obstacles to facilitate future research and policymaking, promoting the integration of vertical greenery for sustainable urban development.

Our study’s contribution

Our study provides valuable insights by examining the obstacles and viewpoints regarding vertical greenery systems in Delhi. It highlights the technical challenges as significant adoption barriers among built environment professionals. Emphasizing the pivotal role of vertical greenery in climate change mitigation, this research advocates for further scholarly investigation and evidence-based policy formulation. This deepened understanding supports the seamless integration of vertical greenery systems into urban landscapes, fostering sustainability and resilience.

Impacts for city policy and practice

Our approach can foster greener, more environmentally conscious cities, offering numerous benefits to residents and the environment.
• Policymakers should consider initiatives that facilitate the adoption of vertical greenery systems, addressing technical challenges faced by professionals.
• Integrating climate change mitigation strategies into urban planning is crucial, recognizing vertical greenery as a valuable tool.
• City policies must prioritize sustainability and resilience by incorporating nature-based solutions like vertical greenery into urban development practices.

Further information

Full research article:

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