With India’s eyes on a greener future, the construction industry is undergoing a profound metamorphosis. This feature highlights the industry’s adoption of sustainable methodologies and its pivotal role in driving a green future.

In a monumental shift towards a greener future, the Indian construction industry is transforming profoundly, with sustainability emerging as its guiding principle. As India sets ambitious goals for net-zero emissions, the construction sector, responsible for a significant carbon footprint, is at the forefront of adopting eco-friendly practices. This cover story delves into the emerging role of sustainability in the Indian construction industry and how key sectors are responding to this paradigm shift.

India’s commitment to net-zero emissions

India’s ambitious commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, as announced at COP26, has set the stage for a sustainability revolution. The construction industry, contributing a substantial portion of the country’s annual carbon emissions, is steering towards a greener path. The journey involves a collective effort from various sectors to align with India’s vision for a sustainable tomorrow.

Practices reshaping the landscape

As a key player in the global construction arena, India is setting the stage for a green revolution within its construction landscape. Recognising the environmental impact of traditional construction methods, industry leaders are actively steering their companies toward sustainable practices. Manoj Kumar, Managing Director of Armix, succinctly captures this sentiment, stating, “Beyond the SLCM, the company is working on equipment like mobile layer machines, small-type batching and mixing plants, and planetary mixers to make it easier for entrepreneurs to start businesses with limited investments.”

Electrification and beyond

Ammann India Pvt Ltd is cautiously optimistic about shifting towards electric systems. Anand Sundaresan, Managing Director, shares insights, “The company has introduced battery-operated tandem rollers, showcasing a commitment to embracing cleaner energy alternatives.” However, he acknowledges the practical challenges of cost and infrastructure in the Indian market. The industry is witnessing a gradual integration of electric systems, aligning innovations with market realities.

Tireless pursuit of operational excellence

Companies like BKT symbolise a dedication to operational efficiency while embracing sustainability. Ashok Chhajer, Business Head at BKT, emphasises aligning operational efficiency with corporate social responsibility, exemplified by collaborations yielding positive impacts. The tire manufacturing operations underscore a proactive stance towards sustainability and operational excellence, aligning processes with ethical and environmental considerations.

Innovations in power solutions

Cummins Belgium is positioning itself as a pioneer in sustainable power solutions. Antonio Leitao, Vice President – Off-Highway, Engine Business & Europe ABO Leaders, emphasises the focus on emerging technologies such as batteries, electrification, and decarbonisation. “Hydrogen engines represent a paradigm shift, offering an alternative that is not only efficient but also environmentally conscious,” he states, underlining Cummins’ commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation.

Navigating technological advancements

Enovation Controls, a player in the dynamic technology landscape of construction equipment, acknowledges challenges in sourcing high-end electronics. Harpreet Singh Wahan, General Manager, sees positive strides in the industry’s application and equipment side, anticipating a 15-20% growth in the Indian industry. He emphasises their commitment to innovation, adaptability, and strategic partnerships for sustainable growth.

Rethinking construction materials

In collaboration with GJJ, Everest Engineering Equipment is committed to reducing the industry’s metal usage. P V Ramdev, Managing Director, explains their innovative strategy of offering modular components instead of purchasing multiple units. “Our concerted efforts align with a broader initiative to promote responsible resource usage,” he adds, emphasising a reduction in consumption of natural resources, including metals and plastics, in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Towards eco-friendly solutions

GS Caltex India is actively showcasing advanced products and services for the construction and mining industry. Vishal Nandurkar, Deputy General Manager, highlights their commitment to sustainability by unveiling futuristic products for the Electric Vehicle (EV) industry and materials crafted from eco-friendly and biodegradable sources. “Our dedication to environmentally conscious practices reflects in these initiatives,” Nandurkar states.

Innovative technologies for carbon reduction

Hasber Machine stands out as a trailblazer in sustainability. Dr. Sachin Kate, Managing Director, delves into their commitment to sustainable practices, showcasing an innovative concrete plant engineered to reduce carbon emissions. “By eliminating the need for a transit mixer and adopting a water-efficient production process, Hasber Machine is a conscientious contributor to the industry’s call for responsible and eco-friendly practices,” Dr. Kate asserts.

Comfortable tomorrow

Hyundai Construction Equipment India aligns its vision with the theme of “Building India’s Tomorrow.” Rajeev Chaturvedi, Vice President, emphasises Hyundai’s focus on global trends in alternative fuels, such as hydrogen-powered and electric escalators. “Hyundai acknowledges the development of alternate fuel technologies within the country, particularly in electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered systems,” he mentions, highlighting their commitment to staying abreast of India’s future needs.

Steeling the future

Jindal Steel & Power Ltd positions itself at the forefront of globalisation and technology adoption. Sushil Kumar Pradhan, Chief Marketing Officer, speaks of technology shaping steel products that adhere meticulously to global standards. “Our commitment to sustainability fosters collaboration and contributes to positioning India as a dynamic hub in the global supply chain,” Pradhan adds.

Crushing efficiency with an eye on lifecycle costs

Titan Crushing Equipment focuses on operational efficiency and sustainability in its showcased products. Vishvaroop Anand, Managing Director, emphasises their approach of enhancing lifecycle costs through improved metallurgy and efficiency. “By prioritising longevity and reliability, we aim to provide solutions that contribute to operational efficiency and align with sustainable practices,” he states.

Paving the way for sustainable technologies

Dimitrov Krishnan, Managing Director of Volvo CE, discusses Volvo’s priority in displaying sustainable technologies, including battery electric compactors, excavators, and wheel loaders. “Volvo’s commitment to versatility and innovation is highlighted by introducing grid-connected excavators to their lineup,” Krishnan shares. He explains Volvo’s strategic move of offering ‘equipment as a service’ to ease customers into new technology gradually, ensuring a confident embrace of the future.

The emerging role of sustainability in the Indian construction industry is evident in the proactive initiatives undertaken by various sectors. From embracing electric systems and reducing metal usage to prioritising operational efficiency and developing eco-friendly solutions, these industry leaders are steering the construction sector towards a greener and more sustainable future. As India moves towards its net-zero emissions goal, these endeavours exemplify a commitment to environmental responsibility and a vision for a more sustainable tomorrow.