Decarbonisation charter calls for concerted efforts from construction industry

The event supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation saw 21 signatories from Bengaluru signing the charter.

Decarbonisation Business Charter (DBC), a joint effort by WRI India, Alliance For an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE), EcoCollab, and Mahindra Lifespace Developers held a Call for Action event in Bengaluru on 12 September to encourage practices that reduce the impact of building and construction industry on the environment.  

The event saw 21 signatories from Bengaluru signing the charter. The charter which targets 100 signatories so far has seen 65 entities including JSW Steel, Landmark Developers, Lemon Tree hotels and Sterling India among others coming on board.  

The sessions addressed architects, designers, developers, contractors, property owners, facility managers, material manufacturers, and industry bodies whose role would be crucial in transitioning towards a low-carbon pathway. 

The activities of the charter have been supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). 

Jonas Brunschwig, Swissnex in India, Consulate General of Switzerland, noted that India has one of the most ambitious net zero goals and cooperation is essential for decarbonisation. Cement being one of the most used materials in construction he highlighted the case of LC3 cement developed by IIT-Madras, IIT-Delhi, IIT-Bombay and TARA.  

LC3 or Limestone Calcinated Clay Cement is an alternative cement and comprises limestone, gypsum, calcinated clay and clinker. A cost effective and less energy intensive alternative to cement, LC3 reduces carbon dioxide emissions in cement production by up to 40 per cent.  

Mr. Brunschwig noted that LC3 has been nothing short of a revolution for the cement sector and is being massively adopted by cement companies around the world.