As we celebrate World Environment Day (June 5), BuildingandInteriors spoke to some of the thought leaders in the building materials industry to understand their take on this very important day and the subject. As we move into the future with ever-expanding built-up spaces, the environment is becoming the common ground for the entire value chain, ranging over manufacturers, brand custodians, architects, designers, consultants, and end-customers. It’s quite interesting to see that players across different categories in the building materials market are actively working towards offering more and more environment-friendly solutions such as green building products in the Indian market for a sustainable future. In their own words:
For the building materials industry, we offer sustainable and green solutions like water-saving EcoSmart technology in showers & taps, energy-saving CoolStart technology in taps & AquaHelix flush technology in WCs to ensure minimum wastage of precious resources.
300+ products from our portfolio are IGBC certified ensuring reliability for our customers. Our commitment to using sustainable materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes further minimizes the environmental impact of our products.
By offering green products & eco-friendly technologies, Hansgrohe supports builders and architects in their green constructions & sustainable buildings. This not only helps the industry meet environmental objectives but also encourages a broader adoption of sustainable practices across India. Through these efforts, we are driving a positive change towards a more sustainable future.”
India is a wood fibre deficit country, and its forests are protected by law, so it must depend on imported wood to meet its demand. In contrast, Canada is a forest nation with close to 10% of the world’s total forest cover and it cares for its biodiversity. Canada is thus well positioned as a long-term reliable source of eco-friendly, wood species legally harvested from its sustainably managed forests. Ever since “sustainable forest management” and “certification” emerged in the 1990s, they were adopted quickly across Canada. Today, it is a world leader in sustainability with over 41 million hectares of certified forests, roughly 37% of certified forests globally.
FII (Forestry Innovation Investment), a crown corporation of British Columbia, the westernmost province of Canada, promotes its species in the overseas markets through educational seminars and training workshops besides sharing best practices for upskilling of reman and structural applications. It provides handholding and technical assistance to the woodworking industry and facilitates sourcing of Canadian wood species by connecting buyers with suppliers, either directly in B.C. Canada for larger loads or locally with 40+ Canadian wood stockists in over 20 cities across India to meet frequent requirements of smaller volumes.”
We have been one of the pioneers globally in heat pump technology for over 50 years. Heat pumps are increasingly recognized as a critical technology for the decarbonization of heat, receiving increasing policy support in several countries over the last few years. The International Energy Agency, estimates heat pumps globally have the potential to reduce global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by at least 500 million tonnes in 2030 – equal to the annual CO2 emissions of all cars in Europe today. We continue to invest in India and aspire to be an influential figure in the facilitation of the country’s energy transition for a sustainable future. The future is now!”
Projects in India are increasingly seeking LEED certification or adherence to IGBC norms and standards. Achieving these certifications ensures that projects are more sustainable, water efficient, and have reduced carbon footprints.
Products like the Schellomat WC flushing system are adjustable to 2/4L, which also supports LEED certification and IGBC standards. This cartridge-based system is installed post-tiling and prevents foul smells from STP water by avoiding stagnation. It’s simple to install and maintain, featuring an integrated isolating valve. The system supports three types of installation: niche, ledge, and exposed (via bend pipe).
We have a strong portfolio of sensor products, including the Compact II WC flushing solution with sensor plate, sensor-based washbasin draw-off taps, self-closing taps, and sensor urinal flushing solutions. These are great for commercial bathrooms.”
Ozone’s manufacturing plants in Kala-Amb, Himachal Pradesh and Ghiloth, Rajasthan adhere to sustainable manufacturing practices. Notably, the Ozone Ghiloth Factory has been certified as a 4-star rated Green Building by ASSOCHAM, highlighting its dedication to a sustainable future. Furthermore, the facility is accredited for Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD), ensuring minimal impact on water resources.
Ozone’s commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices positions the company as a leading example in the industry, inspiring others to follow suit.”
As India carries on its march towards progress, we can draw a fair conclusion that quality brands in the building materials industry are well-tuned to play their roles responsibly by manufacturing sustainable products. Green buildings, water-efficient faucets, and flushes have made an impact in the Indian market and that’s a subtle yet reassuring message for our common future.
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