Sustainability is not an added construct; it is a way of living. When it comes to enabling sustainability through architecture, the role of design which prioritises energy-efficiency assumes immense significance, say Indian architects.  

According to Sachin Rastogi, founding partner and principal, Zero Energy Design Lab, "A `net-zero energy` building is one where the total amount of energy used by the building on an annual basis is roughly equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site, or nearby. Contrary to common assumptions, a `near net-zero building` (built to minimise net energy; one that strives to be net-zero) does not need to be expensive to construct and run; such a building is designed to work with its climate and context. In addition to the significant role of natural lighting and ventilation, a building such as this relies on the use of passive design strategies which can for instance cut down solar heat gain by almost as much as 60-70 per cent."