A paradigm shift towards a GREENER FUTURE enabled through EDUCATION sector

Dr. Anil Kashyap
President & Chancellor of NICMAR University

In recent years, the construction industry has witnessed a remarkable transformation as sustainability takes centre stage. With a growing emphasis on environmental responsibility and resource conservation, researchers and industry professionals are exploring innovative ways to revolutionise construction materials. Building a sustainable future is not just a choice; it is a responsibility we owe to the planet and future generations.  The construction industry, traditionally seen as a consumer of resources, is now at the forefront of adopting practices that minimise environmental impact.

India is committed to achieve the Net Zero emissions target by 2070 as announced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. In my role as the President & Chancellor of NICMAR University – built environment university producing responsible built environment professional, it is our responsibility to prepare the next generation of construction professionals for the challenges and opportunities presented by sustainable materials. Our curriculum at NICMAR University reflects the industry's evolving landscape, emphasizing the importance of environmentally friendly practices and cutting-edge technologies.

The significance of sustainability has transcended being a mere catchphrase; it has become a necessity in contemporary construction methodologies. The worldwide demand for sustainable development, combined with an increasing consciousness of environmental repercussions, has driven the construction industry to adopt environmentally friendly alternatives. From reducing carbon footprints to optimising resource utilisation, the journey towards sustainable construction materials is multifaceted, involving every stakeholder in
the process.

The escalating focus on net-zero goals and sustainability in construction underscores a critical need for innovative approaches. Research assumes a crucial role in driving this narrative, functioning as a catalyst for transformative change. Within the esteemed confines of NICMAR, our students and faculty actively participate in innovative research endeavours, continuously going beyond the limits of what can be achieved. The collaborative efforts yield innovative methods, materials, and technologies that shape the future of sustainable construction which is spread across management of energy and water used during projects, the supply chain management at construction sites which impacts environment in a big way and also the innovative sustainable, recyclable, environment friendly materials developed by many small to big innovating companies.

One exemplary initiative on the national stage is the Gati Shakti project, a flagship endeavour that marries infrastructure development with sustainability. This ambitious project operates at the intersection of water conservation, energy utilisation, and the use of sustainable materials. Through meticulous planning and execution, Gati Shakti aims to redefine the infrastructure landscape, ensuring that the development is not just rapid but also environmentally conscientious. Quantitative insights reveal a substantial reduction in water consumption, a notable increase in energy efficiency, and a significant reliance on sustainable construction materials, all contributing to a holistic and eco-friendly approach.

The recently unveiled new Parliament building and Bharat Bhawan in India stand as towering examples of sustainable architecture. These structures showcase the integration of advanced construction materials, energy-efficient systems, and eco-friendly designs. From solar panels to rainwater harvesting systems, every element is carefully curated to minimise environmental impact. These projects symbolise a commitment to a sustainable future serving as beacons for the industry with even retaining the cultural, traditions and sentiments of being an Indian.

India as a nation has witnessed the emergence of several construction projects that champion sustainability. From green buildings to eco-friendly townships, the landscape is evolving. Projects like Mahindra World City in Chennai, Infosys' Mysuru Campus, and the ITC Green Centre in Gurgaon exemplify how sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into construction practices. The adoption of green building certifications and accreditations such as LEED and GRIHA further underscores a commitment to environmentally responsible construction.

NICMAR, as an institution, not only contributes to research and innovation but also plays a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce. Our commitment to educate and train the next generation of construction professionals extends beyond the theoretical realm; we actively instill principles of sustainability in our curriculum. By integrating the most recent developments in sustainable construction materials into our curriculum, we guarantee that our graduates possess the knowledge and expertise essential for steering the industry toward a more environmentally conscious future.

There is a critical role of research in developing cutting-edge sustainable products. In the realm of construction management, research becomes the catalyst for innovation. We must increase investments in research to propel the industry towards a future where sustainability is not merely a choice but an inherent characteristic of construction practices.

Sustainability is an ever-evolving journey, and research is our compass, the dynamic landscape of sustainable construction research, underscoring the need for collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers. By investing in research, the construction sector can pioneer transformative solutions that redefine the boundaries of sustainability.

At NICMAR, I take pride in our institution's role in spearheading this movement, fostering research innovation, and imparting knowledge that will echo in the construction industry for generations to come. The global advancements in sustainable construction materials are reshaping the way we build our world. From bamboo and geopolymers to recycled plastics and transparent solar panels, these innovations offer a glimpse into a future where construction is not only efficient and durable but also environmentally responsible. As construction management professionals, let us embrace these changes, incorporating sustainable practices into our projects and inspiring the next wave of industry leaders to build a greener, more sustainable world.