Use of insulating materials like glasswool and stone wool can contribute to energy efficiency.

Rajiv Upadhyay, President APAC and India, Saint-Gobain Construction Chemicals

How important is following sustainable practices in construction in the current market scenario?

In the current market scenario, the significance of adhering to sustainable practices in the construction industry cannot be overstated. With the sector being a major contributor to carbon emissions - adopting sustainable practices is not only an ethical responsibility but also a strategic imperative. Embracing eco-friendly construction methods, such as using renewable materials, implementing energy-efficient designs, and adopting waste reduction strategies, not only helps mitigate environmental impact but also presents considerable long-term benefits. Construction players that prioritize sustainability gain a competitive edge, attracting environmentally conscious clients, complying with stringent regulations, and reducing operational costs through resource optimization. As global awareness of climate change intensifies, sustainable construction practices stand as a pivotal solution, fostering a greener, more resilient future for both the industry and the planet.

What are the major ways to reduce carbon footprint in construction?

Reducing the carbon footprint in construction is increasingly achievable through advancements in construction chemical technology and the strategic use of concrete admixtures. Innovative solutions offer a two-fold benefit by not only minimising cement content in concrete mix designs but also reducing water intake, significantly enhancing the durability and strength of the resulting concrete structures. By incorporating high-performance admixtures that improve workability, decrease water requirements, and enhance concrete properties, constructors can curtail cement usage, a primary source of carbon emissions in construction.  

Addressing the need for low carbon building materials in the Indian construction industry, Saint-Gobain India launched the first production of a new glass with a low carbon footprint. The product should have an estimated carbon footprint reduction of approximately 40% compared to the existing Saint-Gobain Glass India products.

A significant reduction in steel and cement used for the foundation can be achieved by reducing the dead weight of a building by replacing conventional non-loading bearing walls with plasterboard-based drywalls. Use of insulating materials like glasswool and stone wool can contribute to energy efficiency. All these will contribute tremendously to reducing the carbon footprint of the building.

All of the above not only contribute to a greener construction industry but also results in more resilient and long-lasting structures. Emphasizing the adoption of such cutting-edge technologies holds the key to a sustainable future for the construction sector, as it combines environmental responsibility with improved performance and durability, aligning with the global call for reduced carbon footprints and enhanced construction practices.

How is Chryso India making a difference in reducing carbon footprint in building/construction materials?

Chryso India is making a significant difference in reducing the carbon footprint in the building and construction materials industry through its innovative and sustainable practices. As a leading provider of construction chemical solutions, Chryso India is actively committed to developing and promoting environmentally friendly technologies and concrete admixtures that help decrease the overall carbon impact of construction projects. By focusing on reducing cement consumption through optimised mix designs and the incorporation of cutting-edge admixtures, Chryso India enables construction professionals to achieve higher performance concrete while using less cement. This results in reduced carbon emissions associated with cement production, a major contributor to the industry's environmental impact. Additionally, Chryso India's efforts extend to researching and introducing greener alternatives, fostering responsible material sourcing, and promoting the use of recycled and eco-friendly materials. Through these initiatives, Chryso India continues to be at the forefront of sustainable construction practices, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and resilient built environment for the future.

What are the latest sustainable products and solutions from the company?

Chryso has been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge sustainable products and solutions that address environmental concerns in the construction industry. Among their latest innovations is the CHRYSO EnviroMix technology, which allows for the use of supplementary cementitious materials, replacing up to 65-70% of cement in concrete mix designs. This remarkable technology not only reduces the carbon footprint by minimising cement usage, but it also reduces water consumption by up to 30%, enhancing the durability and strength of concrete structures. Additionally, Chryso's commitment to sustainable practices extends to their CHRYSO QUARD product, which offers a solution for challenging sand conditions. By enabling the use of locally available sand while still achieving desired results, CHRYSO QUARD promotes responsible sourcing and reduces the environmental impact associated with transporting materials over long distances. Furthermore, Chryso's dedication to energy efficiency is evident in their CHRYSO PUMP SL, a product designed to facilitate the pumping of concrete to greater heights. This innovation significantly reduces the energy required for concrete pumping, contributing to more sustainable construction practices. Through these pioneering solutions, Chryso continues to set a high standard for environmentally conscious products in the construction industry.

What is your vision on sustainable construction and what are your future plans in this direction?

Saint-Gobain's vision is to 'be a worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction'. And our efforts are centred around creating a greener, more resilient, and environmentally responsible built environment for the future. We firmly believe that sustainable construction practices are not only essential for mitigating the environmental impact of the industry but also vital for ensuring the well-being of our planet and future generations. As we move forward, our commitment to sustainable construction will remain unwavering. We plan to intensify our efforts in research and development to innovate eco-friendlier and resource-efficient construction solutions. Our focus will be on further reducing carbon emissions, promoting circular economy principles, and enhancing the use of renewable materials and energy sources. Collaborating with industry partners, organizations, and policymakers, we aim to advocate for sustainable building standards and certifications, driving the adoption of green building practices on a global scale. Additionally, we will continue to invest in education and awareness initiatives, empowering construction professionals and stakeholders with knowledge and tools to embrace sustainability at every stage of their projects. By integrating sustainability into the core of our business, we are determined to be a leading force in shaping a sustainable future for the construction industry and contributing positively to our purpose of making the world a better home.

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