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Cementing a Sustainable Future

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Anuj Khandelwal, Business Head, JK Cement, discusses his company’s technological odyssey in environmental stewardship, and how it changed the thought process of India’s cement sector.

In the realm of global construction, the cement industry stands as a vital pillar, albeit one burdened with a significant environmental footprint, contributing to 5-8 per cent of global emissions. JK Cement recognises the imperative role it must play in fostering sustainability, understanding that our long-term growth is intricately linked to advancing the sustainability agenda.

Commitment to Sustainability
JK Cement has undertaken a proactive stance by signing up for Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)-based goals, committing to a robust 21.7 per cent reduction in specific gross CO2 emissions by 2030 compared to the 2020 baseline. These ambitious targets, already validated and approved by SBTi, signify a substantial stride toward a greener future. Remarkably, we have exceeded expectations, achieving a 16.3 per cent reduction in H1FY24 and poised to surpass our FY25 commitments of a 7.2 per cent reduction.

Challenges in the Industry
Understanding the unique challenges of the cement and lime industry is pivotal. Unlike many other industries, the majority of greenhouse gas emissions in cement production emanate not from energy use but from the raw materials themselves. Approximately 60 per cent of CO2 emissions result from limestone processing, necessitating a nuanced approach to sustainability across four dimensions:

  1. Reduce the need for energy-intensive materials
  2. Improve energy intensity
  3. Greenify sources
  4. Prevent release at the source

A Catalyst for Sustainability
Embracing the philosophy that technology is pivotal in the road to sustainability, JK Cement has strategically invested in technological advancements. Our sustainability journey revolves around three key technological pillars:

  1. Technological upgrades for lower energy intensity
    Upgrading manufacturing technologies and equipment has been instrumental in achieving lower energy intensity. Notable examples include the upgrade of older plants and kilns, such as Nimbahera L3 and Mangrol L2, with ongoing projects in Mangrol L1 and deployment of state-of-the-art Waste Heat Recovery Systems (WHRS) ensures maximal green power output across all our integrated units.
  2. Technological innovations for enabling usage of greener sources
    The substitution of traditional fuels and raw materials with green sources demands technological innovations. JK Cement has taken the lead in deploying a chlorine bypass system at our Muddapur plant to achieve over 35 per cent Thermal Substitution Rate (TSR). Upgrades in feeding systems across kilns facilitate higher TSR levels.
    These innovations are integral to our circularity agenda. By harnessing cutting-edge technology, we are redefining our processes, ensuring a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to cement production.
  3. Unlocking scale and navigating challenges with technology
    Scaling sustainability initiatives requires automation and digital solutions. This is a critical part of our capability build as we move towards the new clean-tech solutions offered.
    For instance, real-time power balancing solutions address the variability in green power generation profiles. Digital load and demand balancing solutions have increased the usage of green power, helping us achieve a remarkable 48 per cent+ green power mix for JK Cement in H1FY24.
    Similarly addressing challenges associated with quality variance in alternate fuels and impact on stable kiln operations required innovative solutions. NIR sensors for online quality testing enable precise control over the alternative fuel blend. In parallel, automated feedback loops helped ensure stable kiln operations even at higher TSR levels.
    Investments in digital quality control systems enable the incorporation of higher alternate raw materials, crucial for maintaining product quality amid the variability of alternate materials.
    Our investment in digital solutions not only underscores our commitment to sustainability
    but also positions us as industry leaders. By leveraging automation, we not only achieve environmental goals but also enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness. These technological interventions also showcase our dedication to overcoming challenges.
  4. The Road Ahead
  5. Technological innovation remains central to JK Cement’s future sustainability initiatives.
    After evaluating the underlying physical and technical limits of available technologies, our
    findings are that the three technologies available today can have a material impact on driving
    down carbon emissions from cement production by 2030. Therefore, our short-term focus is on the three groups of cost-saving technologies to drive the focus further:
    • Substitute Cementitious Materials (SCM), including LC3 Cement
    • Biomass and waste alternative fuels
    • AI for energy efficiency, predictive maintenance, quality improvement and cement logistic and fleet optimisation
    Similarly exploring avenues such as hydrogen (H2) utilisation and electrification, Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS), carbon-neutral transport, CO2 capture in the built environment, and efficient concrete use will be pivotal in achieving our long-term goals and the basis of technological evolution in these.
    As we look to the future, the role of technology in sustainability cannot be overstated. Our commitment to exploring innovative solutions aligns with the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable practices, positioning JK Cement as a beacon of environmental responsibility in the cement industry.

Conclusion
In conclusion, JK Cement views technology as a catalyst for not only meeting but exceeding sustainability targets. As we navigate the complexities of the cement industry, we remain dedicated to pioneering sustainable solutions that redefine the role of technology in our environmental stewardship. Our endeavours are not just about cement; they are about shaping a sustainable future for generations to come.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Anuj Khandelwal, Business Head, JK Cement,
has about 15 years of experience across industry, consulting and strategy roles. He is an MBA from Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow and also has a Chartered Accountancy (CA) degree.

Concrete

FORNNAX Appoints Dieter Jerschl as Sales Partner for Central Europe

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FORNNAX TECHNOLOGY has appointed industry veteran Dieter Jerschl as its new sales partner in Germany to strengthen its presence across Central Europe. The partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of FORNNAX’s high-capacity, sustainable recycling solutions while building long-term regional capabilities.

FORNNAX TECHNOLOGY, one of the leading advanced recycling equipment manufacturers, has announced the appointment of a new sales partner in Germany as part of its strategic expansion into Central Europe. The company has entered into a collaborative agreement with Mr. Dieter Jerschl, a seasoned industry professional with over 20 years of experience in the shredding and recycling sector, to represent and promote FORNNAX’s solutions across key European markets.

Mr. Jerschl brings extensive expertise from his work with renowned companies such as BHS, Eldan, Vecoplan, and others. Over the course of his career, he has successfully led the deployment of both single machines and complete turnkey installations for a wide range of applications, including tyre recycling, cable recycling, municipal solid waste, e-waste, and industrial waste processing.

Speaking about the partnership, Mr. Jerschl said,
“I’ve known FORNNAX for over a decade and have followed their growth closely. What attracted me to this collaboration is their state-of-the-art & high-capacity technology, it is powerful, sustainable, and economically viable. There is great potential to introduce FORNNAX’s innovative systems to more markets across Europe, and I am excited to be part of that journey.”

The partnership will primarily focus on Central Europe, including Germany, Austria, and neighbouring countries, with the flexibility to extend the geographical scope based on project requirements and mutual agreement. The collaboration is structured to evolve over time, with performance-driven expansion and ongoing strategic discussions with FORNNAX’s management. The immediate priority is to build a strong project pipeline and enhance FORNNAX’s brand presence across the region.

FORNNAX’s portfolio of high-performance shredding and pre-processing solutions is well aligned with Europe’s growing demand for sustainable and efficient waste treatment technologies. By partnering with Mr. Jerschl—who brings deep market insight and established industry relationships—FORNNAX aims to accelerate adoption of its solutions and participate in upcoming recycling projects across the region.

As part of the partnership, Mr. Jerschl will also deliver value-added services, including equipment installation, maintenance, and spare parts support through a dedicated technical team. This local service capability is expected to ensure faster project execution, minimise downtime, and enhance overall customer experience.

Commenting on the long-term vision, Mr. Jerschl added,
“We are committed to increasing market awareness and establishing new reference projects across the region. My goal is not only to generate business but to lay the foundation for long-term growth. Ideally, we aim to establish a dedicated FORNNAX legal entity or operational site in Germany over the next five to ten years.”

For FORNNAX, this partnership aligns closely with its global strategy of expanding into key markets through strong regional representation. The company believes that local partnerships are critical for navigating complex market dynamics and delivering solutions tailored to region-specific waste management challenges.

“We see tremendous potential in the Central European market,” said Mr. Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO of FORNNAX.
“Partnering with someone as experienced and well-established as Mr. Jerschl gives us a strong foothold and allows us to better serve our customers. This marks a major milestone in our efforts to promote reliable, efficient and future-ready recycling solutions globally,” he added.

This collaboration further strengthens FORNNAX’s commitment to environmental stewardship, innovation, and sustainable waste management, supporting the transition toward a greener and more circular future.

 

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Concrete

Budget 2026–27 infra thrust and CCUS outlay to lift cement sector outlook

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Higher capex, city-led growth and CCUS funding improve demand visibility and decarbonisation prospects for cement

Mumbai

Cement manufacturers have welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27’s strong infrastructure thrust, with public capital expenditure increased to Rs 12.2 trillion, saying it reinforces infrastructure as the central engine of economic growth and strengthens medium-term prospects for the cement sector. In a statement, the Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA) has welcomed the Union budget 2026-27 for reinforcing the ambitions for the nation’s growth balancing the aspirations of the people through inclusivity inspired by the vision of Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, for a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and Atmanirbharta.

The budget underscores India’s steady economic trajectory over the past 12 years, marked by fiscal discipline, sustained growth and moderate inflation, and offers strong demand visibility for infrastructure linked sectors such as cement.

The Budget’s strong infrastructure push, with public capital expenditure rising from Rs 11.2 trillion in fiscal year 2025–26 to Rs 12.2 trillion in fiscal year 2026–27, recognises infrastructure as the primary anchor for economic growth creating positive prospects for the Indian cement industry and improving long term visibility for the cement sector. The emphasis on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities with populations above 5 lakh and the creation of City Economic Regions (CERs) with an allocation of Rs 50 billion per CER over five years, should accelerate construction activity across housing, transport and urban services, supporting broad based cement consumption.

Logistics and connectivity measures announced in the budget are particularly significant for the cement industry. The announcement of new dedicated freight corridors, the operationalisation of 20 additional National Waterways over the next five years, the launch of the Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme to raise the modal share of waterways and coastal shipping from 6 per cent to 12 per cent by 2047, and the development of ship repair ecosystems should enhance multimodal freight efficiency, reduce logistics costs and improve the sector’s carbon footprint. The announcement of seven high speed rail corridors as growth corridors can be expected to further stimulate regional development and construction demand.

Commenting on the budget, Parth Jindal, President, Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA), said, “As India advances towards a Viksit Bharat, the three kartavya articulated in the Union Budget provide a clear context for the Nation’s growth and aspirations, combining economic momentum with capacity building and inclusive progress. The Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA) appreciates the Union Budget 2026-27 for the continued emphasis on manufacturing competitiveness, urban development and infrastructure modernisation, supported by over 350 reforms spanning GST simplification, labour codes, quality control rationalisation and coordinated deregulation with States. These reforms, alongside the Budget’s focus on Youth Power and domestic manufacturing capacity under Atmanirbharta, stand to strengthen the investment environment for capital intensive sectors such as Cement. The Union Budget 2026-27 reflects the Government’s focus on infrastructure led development emerging as a structural pillar of India’s growth strategy.”

He added, “The Rs 200 billion CCUS outlay for various sectors, including Cement, fundamentally alters the decarbonisation landscape for India’s emissions intensive industries. CCUS is a significant enabler for large scale decarbonisation of industries such as Cement and this intervention directly addresses the technology and cost requirements of the Cement sector in context. The Cement Industry, fully aligned with the Government of India’s Net Zero commitment by 2070, views this support as critical to enabling the adoption and scale up of CCUS technologies while continuing to meet the Country’s long term infrastructure needs.”

Dr Raghavpat Singhania, Vice President, CMA, said, “The government’s sustained infrastructure push supports employment, regional development and stronger local supply chains. Cement manufacturing clusters act as economic anchors across regions, generating livelihoods in construction, logistics and allied sectors. The budget’s focus on inclusive growth, execution and system level enablers creates a supportive environment for responsible and efficient expansion offering opportunities for economic growth and lending momentum to the cement sector. The increase in public capex to Rs 12.2 trillion, the focus on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and the creation of City Economic Regions stand to strengthen the growth of the cement sector. We welcome the budget’s emphasis on tourism, cultural and social infrastructure, which should broaden construction activity across regions. Investments in tourism facilities, heritage and Buddhist circuits, regional connectivity in Purvodaya and North Eastern States, and the strengthening of emergency and trauma care infrastructure in district hospitals reinforce the cement sector’s role in enabling inclusive growth.”

CMA also noted the Government’s continued commitment to fiscal discipline, with the fiscal deficit estimated at 4.3 per cent of GDP in FY27, reinforcing macroeconomic stability and investor confidence.

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Concrete

Steel: Shielded or Strengthened?

CW explores the impact of pro-steel policies on construction and infrastructure and identifies gaps that need to be addressed.

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Going forward, domestic steel mills are targeting capacity expansion
of nearly 40 per cent through till FY31, adding 80-85 mt, translating
into an investment pipeline of $ 45-50 billion. So, Jhunjhunwala points
out that continuing the safeguard duty will be vital to prevent a surge
in imports and protect domestic prices from external shocks. While in
FY26, the industry operating profit per tonne is expected to hold at
around $ 108, similar to last year, the industry’s earnings must
meaningfully improve from hereon to sustain large-scale investments.
Else, domestic mills could experience a significant spike in industry
leverage levels over the medium term, increasing their vulnerability to
external macroeconomic shocks.(~$ 60/tonne) over the past one month,
compressing the import parity discount to ~$ 23-25/tonne from previous
highs of ~$ 70-90/tonne, adds Jhunjhunwala. With this, he says, “the
industry can expect high resistance to further steel price increases.”

Domestic HRC prices have increased by ~Rs 5,000/tonne
“Aggressive
capacity additions (~15 mt commissioned in FY25, with 5 mt more by
FY26) have created a supply overhang, temporarily outpacing demand
growth of ~11-12 mt,” he says…

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