Concrete

Transforming perception

Published

5 years ago

July 1, 2021

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We are witnessing the journey of cement from commodity to brand, and there have been several facets of this journey. One important aspect is packaging. The primary objective of packaging is to contain, protect and preserve a product as well as support its handling and final presentation. It is an integral part of product planning and promotion. Packaging refers to the process and design, evaluation and production of packages.

Functions of Packaging

Promotion and selling of the product: To create a brand identity the packaging needs to be attractive, colourful, and visually appealing packages have promotional value. A well designed package is a powerful selling device because it helps the product stand out from the competitors.

Defining product identity: It is sometimes used to promote an image such as prestige, convenience or status. Can be a crucial part of marketing strategy particularly in advertising.
Providing information: Packages give directions for product use, information about guarantees, production related information like week of manufacturing, BIS Specification number, dos and don??s, etc. It also provides place and address of the manufacturer. Few of the marketing professionals are of the view that the bag not only should be attractive in looks but also should communicate with the customer. The colour and design should be disruptive, yet should reflect positivity.
Protecting the product: For cement it is important that the packaging should be durable and strong enough so that there is no tampering or spoiling during shipping and delivery of the packages. Being a hygroscopic material, it can easily attract moisture.

It is interesting to see the cement bag?? journey from plant to the end user; it reveals some areas of stress. Like oozing bags, due to iron hooks used by loaders, it has been a chronic problem in handling a cement bag consignment. At majority of places in our country like railway yards, truck loading bays and unloading in ware houses, at the consumption points, iron hooks are rampantly used by the labourers doing the job manually. Due to political interference in the job, the practice is continuing unabated. The quality of bags is another issue for bag bursting. The problem can be eased only by automating the process.

Cement packaging is conventionally done in bags and sacks. These bags and sacks can be made out of paper or plastic, jute. In India for long time we were using jute bag in spite the consumer disliked it but in order to support the jute industry a decision was taken to use jute bags. Then came the age of HDPE and PP bags. Paper as a packaging material was too expensive for us. But paper as a packaging material is favoured in European countries. In few micro markets of our country, paper bags are preferred. Paper bags are usually heavy-duty bags and sacks that are manufactured using multiple layers of paper and can be coated with layers of plastic films to provide a barrier against moisture. Paper bags did not get popular in our country mainly due to the methodology used in handling of paper bags.

The bag handlers always charge more rates for paper bags. However, woven and nonwoven plastic bags can also be employed for cement packaging. These bags can hold up to 50 kg of cement without damage. Bags and sacks used for cement packaging also offer printing area on its surface for branding and promotion of the product. Cement producers never thought of producing bags for their use until the recent past because it has been very convenient to source such a low cost material from outside as and when required. Normal PP bag costs around Rs 9 to 11 per piece and a laminated PP bag costs nearly Rs 15 per piece.

For cement companies, it is backward integration to produce bags for captive use. We suggest our readers to go through the interview of M Ravinder Reddy, Head of Marketing ??Vicat Group (India) and Director Marketing of Bharathi Cement, in the same issue for more information.

Starlinger from Austria in Europe is one of the notable companies in production of machinery for sacks, packaging fabrics and technical textiles woven from plastic tapes. The company has a strong presence in India. Its product AD*STAR cement packaging is a well-known sack concept which has been adopted across the world. The main advantage of using AD*STAR cement sacks is reduction in the bag breakage/ bursting.

What is AD*STAR?

??D*STAR ??is a trademark that can be used as a packaging solution only for the bags manufactured by Starlinger’s end-to-end machinery. Off late many cement manufacturers in India have been using AD*STAR packaging solutions for packing of premium cements in order to differentiate from normal cement.

Since it involves use of technology few cement companies thought that it would be advisable to produce the bags rather than to source these from outside. Considering the quantum of usage it has been felt necessary to produce the bags close to the cement manufacturing unit. Some ingredients of the bags are occasionally imported if not locally available. Various studies show that the use of high-grade virgin polypropylene for fabric production and the tight sealing of the sack bottom and top ensure low breakage even during rough handling, dropping, or after contact with water.

The studies in terms of global warming in use of bags show different results in different countries. E.g. the production phase of AD*STAR sacks have less impact on global warming than paper bags in Saudi Arabia because transportation contributes more to the global warming since the raw materials for the paper sacks have to be shipped which is not the case with AD*STAR bags. In short AD*STAR sacks show that it is environmentally friendlier packaging in terms of acidification potential (acid rain), ozone depletion potential, photochemical ozone creation potential (causes summer smog), as well as energy and fresh water consumption.

Regional preference

The geographical analysis of the cement packaging market has revealed that demand for cement packaging solutions is likely to be fueled by developing countries of the Asia Pacific and the Middle East & Africa. In countries such as India and China, polypropylene cement packaging is used most prominently. The material used for making cement bags is usually recycled, and bags are sewn by hand operated machines at large factories. Furthermore, China is one of the leading manufacturers of cement and has a high impact on the dynamics of the cement packaging industry.

Also, the Middle East region has witnessed the establishment of several new cement plants and revamped the existing ones, to cater to the growing demand for construction material. Hence, the sales of cement packaging solutions are growing at present. The market in the Middle East is turning to PP laminated bags from paper.

Paper v/s plastic

For years, there has been a debate on whether paper packaging is better for the environment than plastic. While the general belief is that paper products are more environmentally friendly because they are made from a renewable source, but the argument that paper is more sustainable than plastic is not so straight forward. Some of these misconceptions are due to not considering the entire life cycle of the bag. It is not a simple case of looking at how bags are being disposed of or how long they take to degrade; other aspects also have an impact on the environment.

While plastic packaging can have a bad reputation, banning them and moving solely to paper products could have other adverse effects. In the end, we need to remember the way we use these products to make the greatest difference, not just the bag itself! The most important decision we can make is to choose packaging that doesn?? end in landfills when it doesn?? have to and to select biodegradable options when recyclable options don?? exist.

HDPE and PP

HDPE stands for high-density polyethylene, is a versatile plastic known for its unique benefits. It is commonly used to create containers like milk and water jugs, water tanks etc. However, HDPE can remain flexible as well. For example, plastic bags. Long-lasting, weather resistant, and capable of carrying weight ??whether rigid or flexible.

PP, which stands for polypropylene plastic, is a type of plastic that is specifically known for its semi-crystalline nature. Additionally, PP is a lighter material compared to other types of plastic like HDPE. This makes it an ideal alternative across a variety of commercial applications. Polypropylene plastic is found in everything from ropes to carpets and clothing. It?? relatively affordable commercial material. Presently cement industry uses PP bags.

Additionally, PP is a lighter material compared to other types of plastic. This makes it an ideal alternative across a variety of commercial applications.

Cement packaging market: Key players

Apart from Starlinger from Austria the other key players operating in the global cement packaging market are Mondi Plc, LC Packaging International BV, Gascogne SA, Bischof + Klein SE & Co. KG, Uflex, Taurus Packaging, Unisun packaging, Gempack, Volgopromtrans LLC, ToolAsian Polysacks, Edna Group, and Rosenflex UK.

Concrete

Cement Makers Reaffirm Commitment to Sustainable Growth

Published

5 days ago

June 5, 2026

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World Environment Day spotlight on innovation and circularity

On World Environment Day, the Indian cement industry reiterated its commitment to supporting India’s climate ambitions through sustainable manufacturing, resource efficiency and the adoption of cleaner technologies.

The Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA) said the sector remains aligned with the Government of India’s Net Zero commitments and is accelerating efforts to reduce its environmental footprint while supporting the country’s infrastructure and development agenda.

Parth Jindal, President, CMA and Managing Director, JSW Cement, said the industry is increasingly adopting cleaner technologies, improving energy efficiency and expanding the use of alternative fuels and raw materials. He also highlighted the growing importance of circular economy practices, where industrial by-products and waste streams from one sector are utilised as resources in another.

“The Indian Cement Industry is aligned to the Government’s commitments on carbon mitigation and is accelerating the adoption of cleaner technologies, resource efficiency and circular economy practices while actively exploring the potential of Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) as a critical pathway for deep decarbonisation,” said Jindal.

He added that coprocessing industrial waste and by-products helps conserve natural resources, reduce disposal requirements and lower the environmental footprint across multiple sectors.

According to Jindal, sustainability is no longer limited to manufacturing processes but is increasingly influencing investment decisions, innovation strategies and long-term growth plans within the industry.

Echoing similar views, Dr Raghavpat Singhania, Vice President, CMA and Managing Director, JK Cement, said sustainable development extends beyond emissions reduction and must also focus on responsible resource utilisation and waste minimisation.

“Sustainability in the built environment cannot be measured by emissions alone. It is equally about how efficiently we use resources, how effectively we minimise waste and how responsibly we create the infrastructure that will serve future generations,” said Singhania.

He noted that the cement industry is advancing its sustainability agenda through greater resource efficiency, increased circularity, technological innovation and continuous improvements in manufacturing practices. As a key contributor to India’s infrastructure development, the sector has a critical role to play in balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.

On the occasion of World Environment Day, industry leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting India’s climate goals while delivering the materials required for resilient, durable and sustainable infrastructure.

Concrete

Building a Greener Future Together

Published

6 days ago

June 4, 2026

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Environmental sustainability requires immediate action, not just long-term commitments and discussions. Recycling, circular economy practices, and technology-driven waste management can help industries reduce environmental impact while supporting sustainable growth.

Author: Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO, Fornnax Technology

World Environment Day serves as an important reminder that environmental sustainability can no longer remain confined to discussions, reports, or long-term commitments. The environmental challenges facing the world today demand immediate, measurable, and collective action. Across industries and communities, waste generation continues to outpace our ability to process it responsibly, placing increasing pressure on ecosystems, natural resources, public health, and the well-being of future generations.

One of the most significant shifts required today is a change in how society perceives waste. Rather than being viewed as a material to be discarded, waste must be recognised as a valuable resource that can contribute to both economic growth and environmental protection when managed through the right technologies and systems. This mindset forms the foundation of the circular economy model that countries across the world are increasingly adopting to reduce landfill dependence, recover valuable materials, and create more sustainable industrial ecosystems.

India has made meaningful progress in strengthening awareness around sustainability, recycling, and environmental responsibility over the past decade. Significant efforts are being made to formalise the recycling sector through improved infrastructure, technology adoption, policy implementation, and broader stakeholder participation. These developments are creating a stronger foundation for responsible waste management and resource recovery across the country.

However, achieving long-term environmental impact requires collaboration from all stakeholders. Industries, policymakers, technology providers, and communities must work together with greater accountability to strengthen recycling ecosystems, encourage responsible waste management practices, and create sustainable outcomes through consistent execution rather than temporary interventions.

As someone closely associated with the recycling industry, I firmly believe that technology will play a decisive role in addressing future environmental challenges. Advanced recycling systems have the potential to recover valuable resources, reduce pollution, minimise landfill burdens, and conserve energy, creating a more sustainable future for generations to come. This belief is deeply reflected in Fornnax’s motto, “Committed to Create a Green Future,” which embodies our commitment to building long-term environmental value through innovation and responsible action.

At the same time, technology alone cannot deliver meaningful change. Real progress requires intent, awareness, participation, and a shared sense of responsibility. Sustainable development can only be achieved when innovation is supported by collective action and a genuine commitment to environmental stewardship.

On this World Environment Day, let us move beyond conversations and take meaningful steps towards creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable planet. By embracing innovation, strengthening recycling ecosystems, and acting responsibly today, we can create lasting environmental impact and secure a better future for generations to come.

Concrete

JK Lakshmi Advances LC3 Cement Expansion

Company highlights commercial production and research partnerships

Published

1 week ago

June 1, 2026

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The meeting reviewed progress in limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) technology and its commercial adoption in India’s cement sector, focusing on low-carbon alternatives to conventional binders. JK Lakshmi Cement noted that limestone calcined clay cement can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 40 per cent compared with conventional cement and said this reduction supports industry decarbonisation. The company highlighted that it was among the first two cement manufacturers in India to move LC3 into commercial production after the Bureau of Indian Standards approved the technology as a cement standard.

Vinita Singhania said the transition of LC3 from research to commercial production reflected collaboration between industry, academia and international institutions. Maya Tissafi acknowledged JK Lakshmi Cement’s role in advancing LC3 adoption in India and its contribution in taking the technology from laboratory trials to commercial implementation. Both representatives underlined the growing relevance of sustainable construction materials as India expands infrastructure and urban development.

The meeting explored continued collaboration with Swiss research institutions such as EPFL, EMPA and ETH Zurich alongside Indian academic partners and development organisations. JK Lakshmi Cement has been associated with the LC3 initiative since 2014 and worked with EPFL, IIT Delhi, IIT Madras, Development Alternatives and Technology and Action for Rural Advancement. The company conducted one of the earliest industrial trials of LC3 and recently announced commercial production of Green Pro LC3 cement from its Jaykaypuram plant in Rajasthan.

India remains the world’s second-largest cement producer and expansion of infrastructure, urbanisation and housing demand continue to support long-term sector growth, increasing interest in low-carbon technologies. The company reported an annual turnover of more than Rupees (Rs) 60 bn and current cement capacity of about 18 million (mn) tonnes (t) per annum, with a target of reaching 30 million (mn) tonnes (t) by 2030. Apart from grey cement, the company also makes ready-mix concrete, gypsum plaster, wall putty, primers, adhesives and fly ash blocks, and both sides concluded on the need for continued collaboration to develop sustainable construction solutions.