Building a Sustainable Future: How an MBA in the Built Environment and Technology Drives Environmental Innovation
By Taqdees Anjum
Built Environment is a major contributor for the economic growth all around the world. But there are two faces of the same coin, which indicates that it is a major contributor to carbon emissions and all kinds of pollution. In view of that ample amount of research, discussions and various innovative practices are being done and promoted across the world. Environmental innovations and technological advancements are the need of the hour for reducing the overall carbon emissions, embodied energy and environmental pollution.
It is an obligation for the academic institutions to educate and encourage the young built environment professionals to acquire a deeper understanding, knowledge and skills for promoting and adopting sustainable practices, innovations and technology for bringing up the positive change and sustainable future. Pursuing an MBA in the built environment and technology can empower individuals to make a meaningful difference and lead the way towards a more sustainable future.
- Understanding the confluence of built environment and technology
The term: built environment as a whole means almost all the human-made structures, facilities, landscapes and infrastructure around us. An MBA program can provide a widespread understanding of the interaction between these two areas. It helps professionals identify opportunities for integrating technology into sustainable design, construction, and operations. By leveraging technology such as smart systems, renewable energy solutions, and data analytics, MBA graduates can drive innovation in environmental sustainability.
- Integrating Sustainability leadership and Strategy
An MBA program often includes coursework on sustainability strategy and leadership to enable the graduates to develop a holistic understanding of sustainable business practices and the ability to lead environmental initiatives within organizations. This integration allows them to identify opportunities for innovation, energy efficiency, renewable resource utilization, and waste reduction, leading to tangible environmental benefits. They can assess the environmental impact of various business decisions, develop sustainability plans, and drive innovation by promoting green practices throughout the value chain.
- Green building and sustainable design
An MBA in built environment inculcates professionals with comprehensive knowledge and understanding about green building principles, green building rating systems, green building design strategies, and the latest trends in eco-friendly construction materials and techniques. Thus, it enables graduates to drive innovation by creating buildings and infrastructure that minimize environmental impact and may lead to design Net-Zero structures.
- Collaboration and interdisciplinary Engagement
Deciphering complex environmental challenges requires collaboration between various stakeholders, which may include government bodies, business organizations, non-profit organizations, and local communities. An MBA program facilitates collaborations with industry professionals, which can foster innovation by encouraging the exchange of ideas, identifying emerging trends, and developing partnerships in the built environment and technology sector.
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Sustainability:
An MBA in Built Environment and Technology can foster an entrepreneurial outlook among graduates. Graduates are often encouraged to think creatively, do research to identify market gaps and develop innovative business models that promote environmental sustainability. Equipped with the necessary business acumen to drive innovation and create positive environmental impact, graduates can start their ventures or join existing organizations dedicated to environmental sustainability.
India is a member country of the G20 group and has set ambitious decarbonization goals to address climate change and promote sustainable development. These goals reflect India’s commitment to sustainable development and combating climate change to create a more sustainable and resilient future. Achieving the G20 and decarbonization goals of India requires a skilled workforce proficient in sustainable technologies and practices. The country needs professionals with expertise in renewable energy, green building, environmental policy, clean transportation, etc. Skilled engineers, architects, policy analysts, and project managers are essential for implementing and advancing sustainable initiatives.
An MBA in the built environment and technology provides professionals with a unique skill set that combines business acumen, environmental knowledge, and technological expertise. By leveraging this expertise, graduates can lead the way in driving environmental innovation, influencing decision-making processes, and shaping a sustainable future for generations to come.
(The author is Assistant Professor and NTCC Coordinator at RICS School of Built Environment, Amity University, Noida and the views expressed in this article are his own)
