Global Firms Accelerate India’s Move Toward Green Warehousing

New Delhi, Jul 17 (KNN) Major multinational corporations with strict sustainability mandates are reshaping India’s logistics real estate by demanding green-certified warehouses.

This demand is prompting developers and investors to prioritise sustainable construction methods and operational standards.

A recent JLL India report finds that India’s Grade A warehousing stock has surged—rising from around 88 million square feet in 2019 to approximately 238 million square feet in 2024—with institutional-grade space growing even faster, tripling from 28 million to 90 million square feet. 

Crucially, of the 90 million square feet of institutional warehouses, roughly 72%—approximately 65 million square feet—is already certified green or in various stages of certification.

Looking ahead, certified sustainable warehousing is projected to quadruple by 2030, climbing to nearly 270 million square feet from the 2024 base of 65 million—reflecting strong growth driven by corporate occupiers adopting ESG-aligned logistics strategies.

This transformation is rooted in efficiency and climate awareness. Occupiers are targeting 30–40% lifecycle energy savings, water conservation, waste recycling, and the use of green materials.

Recognised certification systems such as LEED, IGBC, and GRIHA are increasingly being adopted to formalise these standards.

Automation, digitalisation, and renewable integration are key enablers. Warehouses are employing smart energy management, solar rooftops, sensor-based lighting, optimized HVAC systems, and AI-driven logistics to lower both emissions and costs.

These measures contribute to long-term operational savings while supporting India’s broader net-zero ambitions.

Global institutional investors are closely aligned with this shift—doubling their investments in Indian warehousing since the pandemic and prioritising green-certified assets as core long-term holdings.

As ESG requirements become standard for international occupiers, green warehousing is emerging not just as a compliance measure but a strategic advantage—attracting premium investment and feeling India’s transition to sustainable industrial infrastructure.

(KNN Bureau)