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Balancing cost with eco-friendly practices is tricky

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Alan Barboza, Executive Director, Flomic Global Logistics, helps us understand how sustainable supply chains are redefining themselves by integrating cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly practices into its logistics operations.

As global trade accelerates, the logistics industry faces increasing pressure to adopt greener practices. Flomic Global Logistics is rising to the challenge, embedding sustainability into its core operations—from freight transportation and warehousing to supply chain optimisation. In this conversation with Executive Director Alan Barboza, we explore how the company is driving the shift toward green logistics, investing in low-emission transport and leveraging technology to reduce carbon footprints while maintaining efficiency and reliability.

How is Flomic Global Logistics integrating Green Logistics into its operations?
Flomic Global Logistics has made green logistics a key part of how it operates. By tapping into clever supply chain tweaks, using a mix of transport options, and running energy-smart warehouses, the company keeps sustainability hand-in-hand with growth. Flomic teams up with partners across the globe and closer to home to cut emissions, ease off fossil fuels, and make the whole logistics chain sharper. It is all about building a tougher, more responsible system that ticks both the regulatory boxes and the growing call for greener supply chains.

What steps are you taking to reduce carbon emissions in freight transportation?
Carbon emissions from freight are a big worry in global trade, and Flomic’s stepping up to the plate. We are putting money into fuel-efficient lorries, using AI to plan smarter delivery routes, and leaning on data to stop empty trips and wasted fuel. Where it makes sense, we are also shifting to rail or inland waterways. It’s a practical way to hit international green targets and keep in line with the rules, helping businesses meet their eco promises without breaking the bank.

Are you investing in eco-friendly shipping options such as low-emission vessels or fuel-efficient trucks?
Flomic’s on the case when it comes to sustainable shipping, working hard to help decarbonise supply chains. We are partnering with shipping firms and transport outfits that use low-emission ships, LNG-powered fleets, and trucks that sip rather than guzzle fuel. We are also eyeing up biofuels and green hydrogen for the future. By teaming up with like-minded organisations, Flomic makes sure its clients get logistics that match up with the latest green standards and rules.

How do your warehousing and supply chain solutions contribute to sustainability?
Warehousing and supply chain efficiency are massive when it comes to going green, and Flomic’s got it covered. We have rolled out energy-saving kits like automated climate controls, LED lights, and even solar power in some spots. Smart systems in their warehouses keep stock in the right place, cutting down on unnecessary shuffling and energy use. Plus, we are big on sustainable packaging and waste management, helping clients shrink their carbon footprint while keeping things running smoothly.

What role does technology play in optimising logistics for a lower environmental impact?
Flomic’s working with partners who use AI to plan routes, IoT to keep tabs on fleets, and blockchain to make supply chains crystal clear. We are planning to bring some of this tech in-house soon, boosting efficiency and slashing emissions along the way.

How is Flomic ensuring sustainability in handling reefer containers and hazardous cargo?
Dealing with temperature-sensitive goods and hazardous stuff needs a careful, green approach. Flomic uses energy-efficient reefer containers that keep things cool without wasting power, all while keeping the cargo spot-on. For hazardous materials, we stick to strict rules—think spill prevention, emissions control, and proper disposal. By following global standards and best practices, we deliver safe, sustainable solutions that clients can trust.

What challenges do you face in making logistics operations more eco-friendly?
Switching to sustainable logistics isn’t a walk in the park. Balancing cost with eco-friendly practices is tricky, especially with the hefty price tag on things like electric vehicles and green infrastructure. Rules differing from place to place don’t help, and in some areas, options like EV charging points or sustainable fuels are thin on the ground. Flomic’s plugging away with industry mates, policymakers and tech firms to iron out these kinks and speed up the shift to greener logistics.

What are Flomic’s long-term goals for promoting Green Logistics in the industry?
Flomic’s in it for the long haul, building a sustainable logistics setup that lines up with global goals like the International Maritime Organisation’s decarbonisation targets and national carbon-neutral plans. We are gradually bringing in low-emission transport, teaming up with eco-minded logistics firms, and investing in the latest green tech. By sparking collaboration and innovation across the industry, Flomic wants to lead the charge toward greener supply chains.

Concrete

India Sets Up First Carbon Capture Testbeds for Cement Industry

Five CCU testbeds launched to decarbonise cement production

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The Department of Science and Technology (DST) recently unveiled a pioneering national initiative: five Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) testbeds in the cement sector, forming a first-of-its-kind research and innovation cluster to combat industrial carbon emissions.
This is a significant step towards India’s Climate Action for fostering National Determined Contributions (NDCs) targets and to achieve net zero decarbonisation pathways for Industry Transition., towards the Government’s goal to achieve a carbon-neutral economy by 2070.
Carbon Capture Utilisation (CCU) holds significant importance in hard-to-abate sectors like Cement, Steel, Power, Oil &Natural Gas, Chemicals & Fertilizers in reducing emissions by capturing carbon dioxide from industrial processes and converting it to value add products such as synthetic fuels, Urea, Soda, Ash, chemicals, food grade CO2 or concrete aggregates. CCU provides a feasible pathway for these tough to decarbonise industries to lower their carbon footprint and move towards achieving Net Zero Goals while continuing their operations efficiently. DST has taken major strides in fostering R&D in the CCUS domain.
Concrete is vital for India’s economy and the Cement industry being one of the main hard-to-abate sectors, is committed to align with the national decarbonisation commitments. New technologies to decarbonise emission intensity of the cement sector would play a key role in achieving of national net zero targets.
Recognizing the critical need for decarbonising the Cement sector, the Energy and Sustainable Technology (CEST) Division of Department launched a unique call for mobilising Academia-Industry Consortia proposals for deployment of Carbon Capture Utilisation (CCU) in Cement Sector. This Special call envisaged to develop and deploy innovative CCU Test bed in Cement Sector with thrust on Developing CO2 capture + CO2 Utilisation integrated unit in an Industrial set up through an innovative Public Private Partnership (PPP) funding model.
As a unique initiative and one of its first kind in India, DST has approved setting up of five CCU testbeds for translational R&D, to be set up in Academia-Industry collaboration under this significant initiative of DST in PPP mode, engaging with premier research laboratories as knowledge partners and top Cement companies as the industry partner.
On the occasion of National Technology Day celebrations, on May 11, 2025 the 5 CCU Cement Test beds were announced and grants had been handed over to the Test bed teams by the Chief Guest, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh in the presence of Secretary DST Prof. Abhay Karandikar.
The five testbeds are not just academic experiments — they are collaborative industrial pilot projects bringing together India’s top research institutions and leading cement manufacturers under a unique Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Each testbed addresses a different facet of CCU, from cutting-edge catalysis to vacuum-based gas separation.
The outcomes of this innovative initiative will not only showcase the pathways of decarbonisation towards Net zero goals through CCU route in cement sector, but should also be a critical confidence building measure for potential stakeholders to uptake the deployed CCU technology for further scale up and commercialisation.
It is envisioned that through continuous research and innovation under these test beds in developing innovative catalysts, materials, electrolyser technology, reactors, and electronics, the cost of Green Cement via the deployed CCU technology in Cement Sector may considerably be made more sustainable.
Secretary DBT Dr Rajesh Gokhale, Dr Ajai Choudhary, Co-Founder HCL, Dr. Rajesh Pathak, Secretary, TDB, Dr Anita Gupta Head CEST, DST and Dr Neelima Alam, Associate Head, DST were also present at the programme organized at Dr Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.

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Concrete

JK Lakshmi Adopts EVs to Cut Emissions in Logistics

Electric vehicles deployed between JK Puram and Kalol units

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JK Lakshmi Cement, a key player in the Indian cement industry, has announced the deployment of electric vehicles (EVs) in its logistics operations. This move, made in partnership with SwitchLabs Automobiles, will see EVs transporting goods between the JK Puram Plant in Sirohi, Rajasthan, and the Kalol Grinding Unit in Gujarat.
The announcement follows a successful pilot project that showcased measurable reductions in carbon emissions while maintaining efficiency. Building on this, the company is scaling up EV integration to enhance sustainability across its supply chain.
“Sustainability is integral to our vision at JK Lakshmi Cement. Our collaboration with SwitchLabs Automobiles reflects our continued focus on driving innovation in our logistics operations while taking responsibility for our environmental footprint. This initiative positions us as a leader in transforming the cement sector’s logistics landscape,” said Arun Shukla, President & Director, JK Lakshmi Cement.
This deployment marks a significant step in aligning with India’s push for greener transport infrastructure. By embracing clean mobility, JK Lakshmi Cement is setting an example for the industry, demonstrating that environmental responsibility can go hand in hand with operational efficiency.
The company continues to embed sustainability into its operations as part of a broader goal to reduce its carbon footprint. This initiative adds to its vision of building a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
JK Lakshmi Cement, part of the 135-year-old JK Organisation, began operations in 1982 and has grown to become a recognised name in Indian cement. With a presence across Northern, Western, and Eastern India, the company has a cement capacity of 16.5 MTPA, with a target to reach 30 MT by 2030. Its product range includes ready-mix concrete, gypsum plaster, wall putty, and autoclaved aerated fly ash blocks.

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Concrete

Holcim UK drives sustainable construction

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Holcim UK has released a report titled ‘Making Sustainable Construction a Reality,’ outlining its five-fold commitment to a greener future. The company aims to focus on decarbonisation, circular economy principles, smarter building methods, community engagement, and integrating nature. Based on a survey of 2,000 people, only 41 per cent felt urban spaces in the UK are sustainably built. A significant majority (82 per cent) advocated for more green spaces, 69 per cent called for government leadership in sustainability, and 54 per cent saw businesses as key players. Additionally, 80 per cent of respondents stressed the need for greater transparency from companies regarding their environmental practices.

Image source:holcim

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