The Global Cement & Concrete Association (GCCA) India and Xynteo have partnered under the Build Ahead coalition to accelerate the decarbonisation of India's construction sector. Through a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the collaboration aims to enhance the use of low-carbon cement and concrete, addressing climate concerns in construction.

The initiative begins with developing an India-specific green taxonomy and emission thresholds for cement and concrete. This framework will influence national policies, guiding the production and adoption of low-carbon materials. By setting inclusive definitions, it will drive innovation across the industry, support public procurement of low-emission products, and integrate technologies for net-zero CO2 emissions by 2070.

Deepak Khetrapal, MD of Orient Cement and GCCA India co-chair, emphasized the importance of reducing the clinker factor and using supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). He underlined the need for India-specific thresholds to align with the nation’s net-zero goals, benefiting manufacturers and fostering green public procurement guidelines.

Suman Jagdev, Xynteo partner and Build Ahead program director, highlighted this collaboration as a significant step toward a sustainable built environment. Leveraging Xynteo's expertise in systemic change and GCCA India's industry insights, the partnership aims to lower the carbon footprint of India's construction sector.

Thomas Guillot, GCCA CEO, recognized India’s critical role in global decarbonisation efforts. He pointed to the upcoming global definitions for low-carbon cement to be launched at COP29, which member countries, including India, can adapt for state-level applications.

Beyond taxonomy, the collaboration will focus on:

Partnerships with governments and organizations for energy transition. Sharing research for low-carbon material narratives. Demonstrating sustainable construction practices. As India urbanizes rapidly, this partnership is expected to spearhead policies and practices for the widespread adoption of low-carbon building materials, promoting a greener future for the construction industry.