1. To Control Air and Noise Pollution
Green buffers, often in the form of tree-lined belts or landscaped zones, serve as natural barriers that absorb pollutants and reduce environmental impacts. In industrial and high-traffic zones, they help:
- Trap dust, particulate matter, and vehicular emissions
- Absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen
- Reduce noise levels from machinery, loading areas, or highways
These buffers improve air quality and acoustic comfort for surrounding areas.
2. To Separate Incompatible Land Uses
Green buffers provide a transitional zone between different types of land uses such as:
- Industrial and residential
- Warehousing and public spaces
- High-activity zones and environmentally sensitive areas
They help maintain functional and regulatory separation, reducing the risk of nuisance, conflict, or health hazards to adjacent users.
3. To Comply with Zoning and Environmental Regulations
Planning authorities and environmental agencies mandate green buffers to ensure compliance with:
- Development Control Regulations (DCRs) or zoning guidelines
- Environmental Clearance (EC) conditions issued under EIA rules
- Norms of State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
The width and type of buffer are determined based on industry category, pollution potential, and proximity to sensitive receptors.
4. To Enhance Biodiversity and Ecological Balance
Green buffers support plant and animal life, especially in areas undergoing rapid industrialization or urbanization. They:
- Create habitats for birds and insects
- Prevent soil erosion and improve groundwater recharge
- Act as carbon sinks, reducing the ecological footprint of built environments
They contribute to maintaining the ecological integrity of industrial and urban landscapes.
5. To Improve Visual Aesthetics and Livability
In addition to functional roles, green buffers also enhance the visual appeal of a development. They:
- Soften the impact of built infrastructure and hardscapes
- Create a more pleasant working or living environment for employees and residents nearby
- Contribute to urban greening targets and sustainability certifications
Green zones are often integrated into CSR initiatives, green building programs, and industrial park beautification plans.
6. To Mitigate Risks from Hazardous Operations
For industries handling chemicals, flammable materials, or high-noise machinery, green buffers act as safety and containment barriers. They:
- Provide setback distance from public areas
- Reduce the risk of fire spread, toxic exposure, or accidental emissions
- Help meet safety norms under the Factories Act and other industrial regulations
This enhances overall risk management and regulatory compliance within hazardous zones.
