Growth of Indian cement industry, its environment impact and emerging alternatives: A Review

Abstract

The present study provides a detailed review on growth of Indian cement industry, its environmental implications of cement production and its significant influence on the future trajectory of the Indian concrete industry. The Indian cement sector, a vital contributor to the nation's economy, faces a dual challenge of meeting the growing demand for construction materials while mitigating its environmental footprint. The study delves into the industry's current status as the world's second-largest cement producer and its impact on various sectors, including employment, GDP contribution, and dependence on real estate and infrastructure. The paper identifies key obstacles hindering the Indian concrete industry's full potential, such as a slowdown in real estate development, low industrial investment, regulatory changes, and constraints on resource extraction. Despite the industry's promising growth, the looming threats from emerging technologies and increasing environmental concerns, particularly related to greenhouse gas emissions, necessitate a strategic shift towards sustainability. A central focus of the research is the urgent need for the Indian concrete industry to address its environmental impact, specifically the 7% contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. The study explores the industry's role in creating carbon-neutral concrete by 2050 and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with policymakers, financial institutions like the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and end users in achieving this ambitious goal. The study reveals the comprehensive resource for industry stakeholders, and researchers interested in understanding the environmental implications of cement production and charting a sustainable course for the future of the Indian concrete industry and emerging alternatives.