Why the Indian Construction Industry Needs to Change
- Kshitija Mruthyunjaya
- Jun 24, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 26, 2024
As we delve into the environmental impact of the construction industry, especially in India, we face substantial challenges such as the energy-intensive production of materials like cement and steel, along with the considerable waste generated from construction and demolition activities. A transition is crucial to prioritise non-extractive processes that minimise and mitigate waste generation and promote sustainable construction practices.
Written by Kshitija Mruthyunjaya Edited by Shivangini Tandon
The Current Construction Ecosystem
The global construction industry is a significant driver of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. In 2021, buildings and construction accounted for over 34% of global energy demand and approximately 37% of energy and process-related CO2 emissions. Even though there has been an increase in investment in building energy efficiency the rapid growth in floor space has increased overall energy consumption and CO2 emissions [1].
To add to the impact on climate, materials most used by the industry are major contributors to biodiversity loss and pollution as well. In India, the Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council estimated that the demand for 2021-22 included 380 million tonnes of cement, 50 million tonnes of steel, 600 billion bricks, 400 million cubic metres of aggregate, and 40 million cubic metres of timber [2].
Limestone mining for cement production. Image Source : Unplash
This immense consumption depletes natural resources and leaves a significant environmental footprint, impacting air, water, and land quality, and consequently, biodiversity. Cement production alone is a major source of CO2 emissions, accounting for about 8% of global emissions. Steel manufacturing is energy-intensive and releases pollutants, while brick kilns contribute significantly to air pollution. The demand for aggregates and timber leads to deforestation and the destruction of natural habitats, affecting wildlife and local ecosystems.
In India, the Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council estimated that the demand for 2021-22 included 380 million tonnes of cement, 50 million tonnes of steel, 600 billion bricks, 400 million cubic metres of aggregate, and 40 million cubic metres of timber.
An Extractive Approach
The construction ecosystem tends to follow an extractive, linear model of production and consumption. This "extract-consume-waste-dispose" model originated in the Industrial Revolution and prioritises short-term gains through mass production, assuming that energy and resources are limitless. This approach not only destroys ecosystems but also generates enormous amounts of waste. Estimates suggest that building demolition can produce between 300-500 kg of waste per square metre [3].
Demolition Waste. Image Source : Indian Institute of Human Settlements via Scroll.in
Honing in on our local context of Goa, these challenges are particularly pronounced due to ongoing infrastructure changes and rapid expansion in building construction. The demolition of old buildings and new construction are driven further by a surge in tourism and the purchase of secondary and tertiary homes. According to SINTEF’s 2019 report, the estimated total waste generated from construction, demolition, and refurbishment activities in Goa was about 525 tonnes per day. [4]. The number today is likely much larger due to the post-pandemic construction boom.
The disposal of construction and demolition (C&D) waste poses significant challenges in India. Typically, this waste is either sold to local recyclers or illegally dumped in open areas, along roadsides, railways, waterways, and drains, or at specific points such as landfills. These improper disposal methods have serious environmental and public health consequences, including traffic congestion, contamination of municipal waste storage sites, emission of greenhouse gases from mixed waste in landfills, and obstruction of water flow which leads to flooding.
According to SINTEF’s 2019 report, the estimated total waste generated from construction, demolition, and refurbishment activities in Goa was about 525 tonnes per day. The number today is likely much larger due to the surge in construction since the pandemic.
Moving towards a transition
The traditional linear approach of "extract-consume-waste-dispose" is unsustainable, leading to severe environmental and public health challenges. The principles of the circular economy offer a promising alternative to the traditional linear model. For example, in the Netherlands, the city of Amsterdam has developed circular economy principles aimed to reduce waste, promote sustainable resource use, and enhance economic resilience. Key elements include encouraging reuse and recycling, promoting durable and repairable products, supporting circular businesses, and fostering public engagement in sustainability. The policy emphasises collaboration with various partners and implementing supportive regulations [5].
The headquarters of Triodos Bank, in Rijsenburg, Netherlands, exemplifies circular economy principles through its use of sustainable materials, minimal waste generation, and energy efficiency. Designed by RAU Architects, the building is fully wooden and reconstructible, using 165,312 screws for easy disassembly without value loss. The building maximises natural light and ventilation to reduce energy consumption, and its modular structure ensures adaptability for future uses [6].
Triodos Bank, in Rijsenburg, Netherlands.
Image Source: https://www.theplan.it .
In Goa, the establishment of a C&D waste recycling plant in Cunchelim, Mapusa, represents a promising step towards a circular model. According to sources at Goa Waste Management Corporation and Hindustan Waste Limited, this plant is anticipated to save 400-500 tons of natural resources per day [7]. This development is significant, as it not only addresses the immediate waste management challenges but also sets a precedent for other regions facing similar issues.
Adopting circular economy principles is crucial for mitigating the environmental impacts of the construction industry. This model focuses on extending the lifecycle of products and materials through reuse, recycling, and regeneration, moving away from the conventional linear approach. This shift requires collective efforts from industry stakeholders, policymakers, and communities to implement effective waste management practices and innovative construction methods. By embracing a circular economy, the construction sector can reduce waste, conserve resources, and pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future.
Further Reading :
Linear Economy
Construction and Demolition Waste in India
Circular Economy
Amsterdam Circular Strategy
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