Concrete

Constructing Sustainability

Published

8 months ago

January 12, 2024

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Nikhil Bothra, Director, EPACK Polymers, brings to fore the environmental advantages of prefab building and how current challenges can be turned into opportunities.

In the face of escalating environmental challenges posed by conventional construction methods, exacerbated by factors such as the recent construction ban in Delhi due to severe air quality concerns, the imperative for a sustainable shift in building practices becomes more evident than ever. The construction industry’s significant energy consumption, substantial waste production, and contribution to CO2 emissions demand a re-evaluation of traditional approaches.
India, grappling with a staggering annual production of approximately 150 million tonnes of construction waste, shoulders a substantial burden, accounting for a substantial 35-40 per cent of the global Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste each year. This challenge is bound to intensify further with a growing population and an ever-increasing demand for housing and infrastructure in the country.
Enter prefabricated construction, often referred to as Pre-Engineered Buildings (PEBs), as a transformative solution aligning with India’s sustainable development goals. Prefabrication not only addresses environmental concerns but also presents an efficient alternative amidst the challenges posed by construction bans. As Delhi grapples with a temporary halt in construction activities to curb air pollution, the delayed project timelines underscore the urgency for resilient, eco-conscious building practices. Let us explore how PEBs can turn the current environmental challenge into an opportunity for sustainable development.
Water conservation: Traditional construction practices, deeply rooted in history, have historically often come at an environmental cost that is both significant and concerning. Traditional construction methods consume vast amounts of water for mixing concrete, curing, and other essential processes. In contrast, prefabricated construction is a game-changer as it utilises a remarkable zero per cent water during the construction phase. This is particularly significant in regions facing water scarcity, remote hilly regions where every drop counts. By eliminating water-intensive practices, PEBs help preserve this precious resource and contribute to a sustainable future.
Lower carbon emissions: One of the most compelling reasons to embrace prefabricated engineered structures is their significantly lower carbon
footprint. Traditional construction projects churn out massive waste, including surplus materials, excess packaging, and discarded debris. This waste not only strains landfills but also exacerbates environmental degradation. However, PEBs are environmentally friendly, emitting 60 per cent less carbon pollution during the construction process compared to conventional construction. This substantial reduction in emissions is achieved by streamlining the manufacturing process in a controlled environment, reducing energy consumption and minimising waste.
Shorter construction time: Time is money in the construction industry, and shorter construction periods are a win-win for both builders and the environment. Prefabricated solutions can reduce construction time by more than 50% compared to traditional construction methods. The efficiency of assembling building components in a factory
setting and transporting them to the construction site accelerates project timelines. This not only reduces the disruption caused by lengthy construction activities but also curtails associated energy and resource use.
Energy efficiency: PEBs are designed with energy efficiency in mind. The materials used in prefab construction provide superior insulation, maintaining a consistent interior temperature, regardless of external weather conditions. Also, India’s diverse climate can pose a significant challenge to the on-site construction process. Harsh weather conditions, including scorching heat, heavy rains, and extreme cold, can disrupt construction schedules, and expose a substantial energy drain by excessive heating or cooling. Prefabricated construction eliminates this issue by shifting most of the work to a controlled indoor environment. By offering enhanced insulation, PEBs contribute to significant energy savings and promote energy-efficient living by using renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines.
Reduced material waste: The controlled environment of a factory setting ensures that PEBs have fewer defects and require fewer repairs and replacements. In contrast, traditional construction often generates considerable material waste due to on-site errors and over-ordering. PEBs’ streamlined manufacturing process significantly reduces material waste, making them a more sustainable choice. This also aligns with the global push towards responsible resource management and conservation.
Recyclability: Sustainability goes beyond the construction phase and extends to the life cycle of a building. In India, out of 150 million tonnes of construction waste every year only a mere 1% of this colossal waste is recycled, as projected by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). Such practices undermine the collective efforts towards a greener future and leave a lasting mark on the planet. When a building reaches the end of its life, PEBs can be dismantled, and their components can be repurposed or recycled as they are designed for disassembly and reuse. This cradle-to-cradle approach minimises a lot of waste and adds to the overall sustainability of PEBs.
Improved resource management: Prefabrication optimises resource allocation within the factory. Materials and resources are efficiently managed, reducing over-ordering and minimising resource wastage. This results in a more efficient use of resources, promoting sustainable practices and responsible resource management.
As we aim to build a greener tomorrow, embracing PEBs and sustainable practices is the first crucial step toward a responsible and eco-conscious construction industry. The choice is pretty clear, prefabricated construction paves the way for a more sustainable and efficient construction industry that safeguards our planet for generations to come.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Nikhil Bothra, Director, EPACK Polymers, heads the business development of the conglomerate. He carries on the legacy of the family business. He has taken the responsibility of spearheading the company’s expansion into the prefab segment by launching a brand-new domain of infrastructure development.

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JK Cement marks 140 years of innovation and leadership

JK is one of India’s leading manufacturers of Grey Cement in India

Published

2 days ago

September 17, 2024

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JK Cement Ltd. a leading building material company, one of India’s leading manufacturers of Grey Cement in India and one of the largest White Cement manufacturers in the world, celebrated 140 years of JK Organisation’s remarkable legacy at a grand event in the capital. The event honoured the group’s rich history, its significant contributions to multiple sectors of the Indian economy, and the unwavering dedication of its employees and partners.

The celebration gathered dignitaries, industry leaders, employees, and key stakeholders to reflect on JK Organisation’s journey from its inception to its present status as a global leader. Lieutenant Governor of New Delhi, VK Saxena, who himself started his career at JK Cement, along with Rajeev Shukla, Member of Rajya Sabha, graced the occasion. Key leaders of the JK Organisation, including Dr. Nidhipati Singhania, Vice President, JK Organisation, Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement, and Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint MD and CEO, JK Cement, were present to mark this significant milestone.

CEO’s from various known business houses both Indian and Multinational companies across sectors graced the occasion.

Reflecting on the organization’s journey, Dr. Nidhipati Singhania, Vice President, JK Organisation, said, “As we celebrate 140 years of JK Organisation, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude for our legacy, which is rooted in values of innovation, quality, and service to the nation. Our journey has been as much about business success as about driving positive change in the communities and industries we serve. The milestones we have achieved reflect our continuous efforts in advancing India’s infrastructure and industrial landscape.”

One of the key highlights of the evening was the recognising the long-serving employees and partners who have dedicated decades to JKCement. Their enduring loyalty underscores JK Organisation’s foundational values of trust and collaboration, which have been pivotal to the organisation’s success.

Addressing the guests at the event, Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement, said, “This year along with the 140 years milestone, also marks two significant milestones for us: 50 years of grey cement business and 40 years of white cement business, affirming our leadership in the industry. Our recent expansion into coal mining underscores our commitment to vertical integration and sustainable resource management. We are dedicated to not only adapting to the evolving landscape but also driving positive change and creating lasting value for all our stakeholders and the nation.”

Emphasising the company’s commitment to innovation and progress, Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint MD and CEO, JK Cement, said, “Our journey has been marked by resilience, adaptability, and a constant drive to exceed expectations. We’re committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to not only maintain our market leadership but also to contribute significantly to India’s progress. The trust of our stakeholders and the dedication of our team members have been instrumental in our success, and they will continue to be the pillars of our future endeavors.”

The event celebrated JK Organisation’s visionary outlook, showcasing its commitment to sustainable growth, technological innovation, and its influential role in driving India’s economic advancement.

VK Saxena, Lieutenant Governor, New Delhi, who was invited as the Chief Guest said “It’s an honour for me to be part of this landmark celebration for a company where I started my career as an Assistant Officer in Gotan, Rajasthan and worked for 11 years in different capacities with its White Cement plant. This exposure gave me insights of a corporate working, faster decision making and team work, which has helped me throughout my various stints thereafter. I wish all the best to JK Cement for all their Future endeavors in Nation Building”

Concrete

Steel Ministry Proposes Rs.23.52 Lakh Crore for Decarbonisation

Steel Ministry unveils massive decarbonisation plan.

Published

3 days ago

September 16, 2024

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Decarbonisation Proposal:
The Steel Ministry has outlined a substantial Rs.23.52 lakh crore proposal aimed at decarbonising the steel industry. This initiative is part of the broader sustainability and environmental goals set by the Indian government.

Objective and Goals:
The primary objective of the proposal is to reduce carbon emissions significantly and enhance the environmental performance of the steel sector. This aligns with India’s commitment to climate action and green growth.

Investment Focus:
The proposal will channel funds into advanced technologies, energy-efficient processes, and renewable energy sources. Key areas of investment include electrification, hydrogen-based steelmaking, and carbon capture technologies.

Expected Benefits:
Implementing this plan is expected to lead to major reductions in carbon emissions, improve air quality, and contribute to sustainable development. It will also bolster India’s position as a global leader in green steel production.

Industry Impact:
The steel industry, being a major emitter of greenhouse gases, will undergo a transformation. This shift will require industry-wide adaptation and could influence global steel market trends.

Government Support:
The Indian government is committed to providing policy support, incentives, and regulatory frameworks to facilitate this transition. This includes subsidies for green technologies and research and development funding.

Timeline and Phases:
The implementation will be carried out in phases over the coming years. Short-term goals will focus on immediate emission reductions, while long-term goals will target more comprehensive technological advancements.

Stakeholder Involvement:
Collaboration with industry stakeholders, technology providers, and research institutions will be crucial. Engagement with local communities and environmental groups will also play a role in ensuring the success of the proposal.

Challenges:
The initiative may face challenges such as high costs, technological barriers, and regulatory hurdles. Addressing these challenges will be essential for the successful execution of the decarbonisation plan.

Future Outlook:
The proposal positions India as a key player in the global movement towards sustainable steel production. It sets a precedent for other sectors to follow and supports the country’s broader climate goals.

Conclusion:
The Steel Ministry’s proposal for a Rs.23.52 lakh crore decarbonisation plan represents a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions in the steel industry. With substantial investment in green technologies and strong government support, this initiative aims to drive sustainable growth and position India as a leader in environmental stewardship.

Concrete

New home prices in China fall 5.3% in August 2024

New home prices were down 5.3% from a year earlier.

Published

3 days ago

September 16, 2024

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Official data revealed that China’s new home prices had fallen at their fastest rate in over nine years in August, as supportive measures failed to induce a significant recovery in the property sector. The data showed that new home prices were down 5.3% compared to the previous year, marking the sharpest decline since May 2015, compared to a 4.9% drop in July, based on calculations by Reuters from National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data. Monthly figures indicated that new home prices had fallen for the fourteenth consecutive month, decreasing by 0.7%, which was the same drop recorded in July.

The property market in China continues to struggle with deeply indebted developers, incomplete apartments, and declining buyer confidence, which is putting a strain on the financial system and threatening the 5% economic growth target for the year. A Reuters poll had forecast that home prices in China would decline by 8.5% in 2024 and by 3.9% in 2025 as the sector struggles to stabilise.

Zhang Dawei, chief analyst at property agency Centaline, mentioned that the property market is still gradually bottoming out, with home buyers’ demand, income, and confidence expected to take some time to recover. He noted that the market was anticipating a stronger policy response. According to the official data released on Saturday, property investment had fallen by 10.2% and home sales had dropped by 18.0% year-on-year in the first eight months of the year.

Chinese policymakers have stepped up efforts to support the property sector, including reducing mortgage rates and lowering home buying costs. These measures have partially revitalised demand in major cities, while smaller cities, which have fewer home purchase restrictions and high levels of unsold inventory, are particularly vulnerable. This situation underscores the difficulties faced by authorities in balancing demand and supply across different regions.

In a research note on Friday, Nomura indicated that with the growth slowdown worsening under new headwinds in the second half of the year, Beijing might eventually need to step in as the “builder of last resort” by directly providing funding to delayed residential projects that have already been pre-sold. According to Bloomberg News, China may cut interest rates on over $5 trillion in outstanding mortgages as early as this month.

To support these mortgage rate cuts, economists at ANZ suggested that a reduction in the five-year Loan Prime Rate was likely in September, along with a 20 basis point cut to the medium-term lending facility (MLF) and a 50 basis point cut to the reserve requirement ratio (RRR).