Metropolis by Reliance MET City (Haryana) has become India’s first project to receive LEED Platinum Pre-Certification under the LEED for Cities: Plan and Design rating system. The certification has been awarded by the Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), marking a major milestone in India’s sustainable urban development efforts.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
| Project | Metropolis (Reliance MET City) |
| Location | Haryana |
| Certification | LEED Platinum Pre-Certification |
| Rating System | LEED for Cities: Plan and Design |
| Certifying Body | Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) |
| Significance | First such project in India |
About the Achievement
- Metropolis has received Platinum level pre-certification, the highest rating under LEED standards
- Recognition given at the planning and design stage, not after construction
- Places the project among select global developments with such recognition
This highlights the integration of sustainability principles from the initial design phase itself.
What is LEED?
| Aspect | Details |
| Full Form | Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design |
| Developed by | U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) |
| Nature | Global green building certification system |
| Scope | Buildings, cities, and communities |
LEED is one of the most widely recognised sustainability certification frameworks globally, focusing on environmentally responsible and resource-efficient development.
LEED for Cities: Plan and Design
This rating system evaluates large-scale urban developments at the planning stage to ensure sustainability is embedded early in the project lifecycle.
Key Evaluation Areas
- Infrastructure planning
- Energy efficiency
- Water management
- Mobility and transport systems
- Ecology and green spaces
- Livability and quality of life
What is Pre-Certification?
- Granted before project completion
- Indicates that the project design meets high sustainability standards
- Ensures that sustainability goals are built into execution from the beginning
Significance
- Promotes sustainable urbanisation in India
- Encourages environment-friendly city planning
- Aligns with:
- Climate goals
- Resource efficiency
- Enhances: Global recognition of Indian infrastructure projects
- Demonstrates shift from: Conventional urban development– sustainable and planned ecosystems
Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI)
| Feature | Details |
| Role | Certification body for LEED and other sustainability standards |
| Headquarters | USA |
| Function | Evaluates and certifies green projects globally |
U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
- Non-profit organisation
- Develops: LEED standards
- Promotes: Sustainable building practices worldwide
Levels of LEED Certification
| Level | Description |
| Certified | Basic level |
| Silver | Moderate performance |
| Gold | High performance |
| Platinum | Highest level of sustainability |
Sustainable Urban Development
- Focus areas:
- Energy efficiency
- Water conservation
- Waste management
- Green transport
- Linked to: Climate change mitigation and Smart cities concept
Relevance to India
- Supports: Smart Cities Mission and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Promotes: Green infrastructure and Climate-resilient urban planning