green material in india construction sector is booming, and with that growth comes a crucial need for sustainable practices and materials. “Green materials” in India refer to building and construction materials that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their entire lifecycle, from extraction and manufacturing to use, reuse, and recycling.

The market for green building materials in India is experiencing significant growth, with a projected CAGR of 11.28% from 2025-2033, reaching USD 39.01 Billion by 2033. This growth is driven by increasing awareness, supportive government policies, and rising demand for sustainable construction.

Here’s a comprehensive look at green materials in India:

I. Types of Green Materials Commonly Used in India:

The range of green materials is diverse, leveraging traditional wisdom, recycling, and modern innovation:

A. Locally Sourced & Natural Materials:

1. Bamboo: Known for its rapid growth, high strength-to-weight ratio, and flexibility. It’s used for structural elements, flooring, wall panels, and even decorative purposes. Its renewability makes it a prime green material.
2. Rammed Earth/Adobe: Ancient techniques using compacted local soil, often stabilized with a small amount of cement or lime. These provide excellent thermal mass, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.
3. Local Stone: Durable, low-maintenance, and abundant in many parts of India. Using locally quarried stone reduces transportation emissions.
4. Terracotta & Clay Bricks: Traditional materials that, when produced with efficient kilns and from local clay, offer good thermal properties.
5. Straw Bales: Made from leftover agricultural waste, straw bales offer natural insulation and are used for walls, especially in rural or eco-conscious builds.
6. Jute Fiber: India is a major producer of jute. It’s used in composites, for insulation, and as a reinforcement in cement or other binders.
7. Coir (Coconut Fiber): A byproduct of coconut processing, coir is used for insulation, acoustic panels, and as a reinforcement in cement or aggregates due to its high water-holding capacity.

B. Recycled & Waste-Derived Materials:

1. Fly Ash Bricks: Made from fly ash, a waste product from coal-fired power plants, mixed with cement and sand. They are lighter, stronger, and more consistent than traditional clay bricks, and their use reduces waste disposal issues.
2. Recycled Steel: Significantly lowers the environmental impact compared to virgin steel production. Widely used in structural components. India produces a substantial amount of recycled steel.
3. Recycled Concrete and Aggregates: Crushed and processed construction and demolition waste used as aggregates in new concrete mixes, reducing demand for virgin materials and landfill waste.
4. Recycled Plastic: Being transformed into various building components like plastic lumber, roof tiles, and even bricks, addressing the plastic waste crisis.
5. Recycled Glass: Used in flooring, countertops, tiles, and as aggregates in concrete, adding aesthetic appeal and reducing waste.
6. Rice Husk Ash Concrete: Rice husk ash, a byproduct of rice milling, can be used as a supplementary cementitious material, reducing the cement content in concrete and improving its properties.

C. Engineered & High-Performance Green Materials:

1. Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Blocks: Lightweight, porous, and excellent insulators. They significantly reduce the dead load on structures and contribute to energy efficiency by minimizing heat transfer, thus reducing cooling/heating loads.
2. Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs): Blocks or panels made from foam that serve as permanent forms for concrete, providing excellent insulation and structural integrity.
3. Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) Paints: Reduce the emission of harmful chemicals into indoor air, improving indoor environmental quality.
4. High-Performance Glass: Low-E (low-emissivity) coatings and double/triple glazing reduce heat transfer through windows, crucial for energy-efficient facades.
5. Hempcrete: A lightweight, insulating material made from hemp fibers, lime, and water. It offers good thermal performance, fire resistance, and is breathable.
6. Timbercrete: A unique material made from sawdust and concrete, offering reduced transportation emissions and good insulating properties.

II. Drivers and Initiatives for Green Materials in India:

• Government Policies & Regulations:
  • Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC): Developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), sets minimum energy performance standards for commercial buildings and is being rolled out for residential buildings (ECBC-R).
  • National Building Code (NBC) – 2016 (with amendments): Includes provisions for sustainable construction, rainwater harvesting, waste management, and daylight utilization.
  • Green Rating Systems:
    • GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment): India’s own national green building rating system developed by TERI and endorsed by MNRE.
    • LEED India (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): Adapted for the Indian context by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC).
  • Smart Cities Mission: Promotes sustainable urban development and encourages green building adoption in 100+ cities.
  • State-Specific Policies: Many states (like Maharashtra, Karnataka) offer incentives such as property tax rebates, expedited approvals, and FAR (Floor Area Ratio) relaxation for green-certified buildings.
• Rising Awareness & Demand: Growing environmental consciousness among consumers, developers, and corporates.
• Cost Savings (Long-term): While initial costs might sometimes be higher, green materials contribute to significant long-term operational savings through reduced energy and water consumption.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) & ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance): Companies are increasingly adopting green building practices to meet CSR objectives and investor expectations.
• Technological Advancements: Innovation in material science and manufacturing processes makes green materials more viable and accessible.

III. Challenges in Adoption:

Despite the growth, several challenges persist:

• Limited Awareness and Knowledge: A significant portion of stakeholders (developers, contractors, end-users) are still unaware of the benefits and proper application of green materials.
• Perceived High Initial Costs: Although long-term savings are significant, the upfront cost of some green materials can be higher than conventional ones, deterring adoption.
• Inadequate Incentives: While incentives exist, they are not always uniform across states and may not be sufficient to drive large-scale adoption for all types of projects.
• Lack of Skilled Manpower: A shortage of skilled architects, engineers, and construction workers trained in green building methodologies and the application of specific green materials.
• Fragmented Supply Chain: Availability and consistent supply of certain green materials can be an issue in some regions.
• Resistance to Change: A natural reluctance to move away from established, conventional construction practices.
• Lack of Standardization and Monitoring: Insufficient standardization and robust monitoring systems for green material performance can hinder widespread trust and adoption.

IV. Leading Manufacturers and Promoters:

While many smaller and regional players contribute, larger entities and industry bodies are crucial:

• ACC, Ambuja Cement, Ultratech Cement: Investing in blended cements (with fly ash, slag) and sustainable concrete solutions.
• AAC Block Manufacturers: Companies like Bigbloc Construction Limited (Nxtbloc), Licon, and Finecrete are prominent in this segment.
• Insulation Providers: Companies offering advanced thermal insulation solutions.
• Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and GRIHA Council: Play a pivotal role in promoting green building concepts and certifying projects.
• Infra.Market: A tech-enabled platform distributing a wide range of building materials, including green options like AAC blocks and recycled aggregates, aiming to streamline procurement.
• Ramco Industries: Focused on green dry-construction materials.
• Various local manufacturers: Producing bricks, tiles, and other components from recycled or natural sources.

The green materials sector in India is dynamic and evolving. As the nation pushes towards its sustainable development goals, the demand for and innovation in these materials will only continue to accelerate.

What is green material in India?

In India, “green material” refers to building and construction materials that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their entire lifecycle. This means considering their impact from:

• Extraction/Sourcing: Are the raw materials renewable, locally abundant, or waste products? Is their extraction sustainable and does it minimize environmental damage?
• Manufacturing: Does the production process consume less energy, water, and generate less pollution?
• Transportation: Is the material sourced locally to reduce emissions from transport?
• Installation/Use: Does the material contribute to a healthier indoor environment (e.g., low VOCs) and enhance the building’s energy efficiency (e.g., good insulation)?
• Durability and Longevity: Does the material have a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacement?
• End-of-Life: Can the material be reused, recycled, or biodegraded, minimizing landfill waste?

The goal of using green materials in India is to support the broader “green building” movement, which aims to create structures that are sustainable, energy and water efficient, cost less to maintain, and contribute to healthier living spaces.

Here’s a breakdown of what constitutes green materials in India, categorized by their primary source or characteristic:

I. Locally Sourced & Natural Materials:

These materials leverage India’s rich natural resources and traditional construction wisdom, minimizing transportation impact and often providing excellent thermal properties.

• Bamboo: A rapidly growing grass, incredibly strong and versatile. Used for structural elements, flooring, wall panels, and even roofing. It’s highly renewable.
• Rammed Earth/Adobe/Mud: Ancient techniques using compacted local soil, often mixed with stabilizers. They offer excellent thermal mass, helping to keep interiors cool in summer and warm in winter, thus reducing the need for air conditioning or heating.
• Local Stone: Abundant in various regions of India, using locally quarried stone reduces the energy expended in transportation. It’s durable and low-maintenance.
• Terracotta & Clay Bricks: Traditional materials. When sourced locally and produced with energy-efficient kilns, they offer good thermal performance and breathability.
• Coir (Coconut Fiber): A byproduct of the coconut industry, used for insulation, acoustic panels, and as a reinforcement in composites or concrete.
• Jute Fiber: India is a major producer of jute. It finds application in composites, insulation, and as reinforcement.

II. Recycled & Waste-Derived Materials:

These materials address the growing problem of waste by diverting industrial and post-consumer waste from landfills and transforming them into useful building components.

• Fly Ash Bricks: Made from fly ash, a major waste product from coal-fired power plants. These bricks are lighter, stronger, and more energy-efficient than traditional clay bricks, and their use helps manage industrial waste.
• Recycled Steel: Steel is 100% recyclable. Using recycled steel significantly reduces the energy and environmental impact compared to producing virgin steel. It’s widely used in structural components.
• Recycled Concrete and Aggregates: Construction and demolition (C&D) waste is crushed and processed to create aggregates for new concrete mixes, reducing demand for virgin sand and stone.
• Recycled Plastic Products: Plastic waste is being repurposed into various building materials like plastic lumber, roof tiles, interlocking bricks, and even insulation, providing solutions for the plastic pollution crisis.
• Rice Husk Ash Concrete: Rice husk ash, a byproduct of rice milling, can be used as a supplementary cementitious material in concrete, reducing the need for cement (which has a high carbon footprint).
• Marble Slurry Bricks: Utilizing waste marble slurry from stone processing industries to make bricks.

III. Engineered & High-Performance Green Materials:

These are often technologically advanced materials designed to offer superior performance, particularly in terms of energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality.

• Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Blocks: Lightweight, precast, foam concrete building materials that offer excellent thermal insulation, reducing heating and cooling loads.
• Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) Paints, Adhesives, and Sealants: These products emit fewer harmful chemicals into indoor air, improving indoor air quality and occupant health.
• High-Performance Glass: Low-E (low-emissivity) glass, double-glazed units (DGUs), and smart glass reduce heat transfer through windows, crucial for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures without excessive energy use.
• Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs): Essentially insulating foam blocks filled with concrete, providing continuous insulation and structural integrity.
• Hempcrete: A concrete-like material made from hemp hurds, lime, and water. It’s lightweight, insulating, and carbon-negative (sequesters CO2 during growth).

Why are Green Materials Important in India?

1. Environmental Protection: Crucial for reducing the carbon footprint of India’s rapidly expanding construction sector, conserving natural resources, and minimizing waste generation.
2. Energy Efficiency: Many green materials (like AAC blocks, insulation, low-E glass, rammed earth) directly contribute to a building’s thermal performance, significantly reducing the energy needed for heating and cooling.
3. Cost Savings: While some green materials might have a higher upfront cost, they often lead to significant long-term operational savings through reduced energy and water bills, and lower maintenance.
4. Healthier Indoor Environments: Materials with low VOCs and natural components contribute to better indoor air quality, which is vital for occupant well-being.
5. Compliance and Certifications: The growing demand for green buildings, driven by rating systems like GRIHA and LEED India, necessitates the use of certified green materials.
6. Government Push: Policies like the ECBC, National Building Code, and initiatives like the Green Credit Program and Ecomark Rules, are actively promoting the use of sustainable materials and practices.

The use of green materials in India is a dynamic field, driven by innovation, increasing awareness, and the urgent need to build a sustainable future while accommodating rapid urbanization and infrastructure development.

Who is require green material in India?

Courtesy: Matani Architects

In India, the “requirement” for green materials is driven by a combination of factors, including regulatory pushes, market demand, voluntary certifications, and growing environmental consciousness. It’s not a single mandate for every construction project, but rather a strong and increasing imperative for various stakeholders.

Here’s who requires green materials in India, and how:

1. Green Building Certification Bodies (Key Enablers and Drivers):

These organizations set the standards and criteria that implicitly “require” the use of green materials to achieve certification.

• Indian Green Building Council (IGBC): A leading council that develops rating systems (e.g., IGBC Green New Buildings, Green Homes, Green Factory Building, Green SEZ) for various building types. To get an IGBC certification (Certified, Silver, Gold, Platinum), projects must accumulate points, a significant portion of which are awarded for using sustainable building materials (recycled content, local materials, salvaged materials, low VOCs, etc.).
• GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment): India’s national green building rating system, developed by TERI and endorsed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). Similar to IGBC, GRIHA awards points for material selection, emphasizing sustainable, non-toxic, and locally sourced materials.

How they “require” it: By providing a framework and recognized standard. Developers and builders who aim for certification (to gain market advantage, meet corporate sustainability goals, or access incentives) must choose materials that align with these rating systems.

2. Real Estate Developers and Builders (Primary Users & Market Responders):

These are the direct consumers of green materials in large quantities.

• For Green-Certified Projects: Developers targeting IGBC or GRIHA certification for their commercial, residential, or mixed-use projects are “required” to procure and use green materials to meet the rating criteria.
• For Market Advantage: Even without specific certification targets, developers are increasingly using green materials because:
  • Growing Demand: Buyers (especially in the residential and commercial sectors) are becoming more environmentally conscious and prefer properties that offer energy efficiency, healthier indoor environments, and lower operating costs (which green materials contribute to).
  • Enhanced Brand Image: Being seen as a “green” developer improves reputation and attracts discerning clients.
  • ESG Compliance: Large developers often have Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) mandates from investors, pushing them towards sustainable construction.

How they “require” it: Through project specifications, procurement policies, and direct purchasing decisions driven by market demand and strategic goals.

3. Government and Public Sector (Policy Makers, Enforcers & Leading Examples):

Governments play a multifaceted role in “requiring” green materials.

• Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC): While not directly about materials, ECBC mandates minimum energy performance for commercial buildings. Using green materials like AAC blocks, efficient insulation, and high-performance glass becomes a de facto requirement to meet these energy efficiency targets.
• National Building Code (NBC): Contains provisions for sustainable construction and material use.
• Green Procurement Policies: Government departments and public sector undertakings (PSUs) are increasingly adopting policies that mandate the use of green-certified or environmentally friendly products and materials in their construction and renovation projects.
• Incentives: State governments often provide incentives like property tax rebates, reduced stamp duty, or faster approvals for green-certified buildings, indirectly “requiring” the use of green materials to qualify for these benefits.
• Green Credit Program (GCP) and Ecomark Rules: Recent initiatives that incentivize environmentally friendly practices and products, including those used in construction. The Ecomark scheme, specifically, encourages manufacturers to produce, and consumers to demand, green products, including construction materials.

How they “require” it: Through legislation, building codes, incentive schemes, and leading by example in public infrastructure projects.

4. Architects, Designers, and Consultants (Specifiers and Influencers):

These professionals are crucial in specifying and recommending green materials.

• Sustainable Design Principles: Architects and designers committed to sustainable architecture will inherently “require” green materials to realize their design vision for energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and reduced environmental impact.
• Client Demand: As client awareness grows, they often specifically request green building features, pushing architects to specify appropriate materials.
• Certification Requirements: Professionals involved in green building projects must specify materials that align with the chosen rating system.

How they “require” it: Through design specifications, material schedules, and expert advice to clients.

5. Manufacturers of Building Materials (Suppliers Responding to Demand):

While not directly “requiring” green materials for use, manufacturers are “required” to produce green materials due to market demand and regulatory pressures.

• Meeting Market Demand: The increasing demand from developers and certified projects compels manufacturers to innovate and produce green alternatives (e.g., fly ash bricks, AAC blocks, low VOC paints).
• Competitive Advantage: Offering green products can be a significant differentiator in the market.
• Ecomark Scheme: Manufacturers aiming for the Ecomark certification for their products must ensure they meet specific environmental criteria, effectively “requiring” them to adhere to green production standards.

How they “require” it: By adapting their production processes, product lines, and marketing to cater to the growing green building market.

In summary, the “requirement” for green materials in India is a multifaceted phenomenon driven by a synergy of government regulations, voluntary green building certifications, increasing market demand, and the commitment of professionals and manufacturers to sustainable practices. This collective push is transforming the Indian construction landscape towards a more environmentally responsible future.

When is require green material in India?

The “when” for requiring green materials in India isn’t a single point in time, but a continuously evolving and intensifying process. Here’s a breakdown:

• Now (and increasingly): Green materials are required now for projects seeking green building certifications like IGBC and GRIHA. Developers aiming for these certifications must use green materials to earn points.
• When complying with regulations: The Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) and National Building Code (NBC) indirectly require green materials to meet energy efficiency and sustainability standards.
• When responding to market demand: As buyers become more environmentally conscious, developers are using green materials to attract customers.
• When seeking long-term savings: While initial costs may be higher, green materials often lead to lower operating costs (energy and water bills) over the building’s lifespan.
• When adhering to ESG criteria: Companies are using green materials to meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) mandates.
• When promoting health: Green materials with low VOCs are required for healthier indoor air quality.
• Continuously: The need for green materials will only intensify as India pushes for sustainable development and reduces its carbon footprint.
• When manufacturers seek Ecomark certification: To get this certification, manufacturers must produce materials that meet specific environmental criteria.
• When the government promotes green procurement: Government projects increasingly require green materials.
• When architects prioritize sustainability: Architects committed to sustainable design will specify green materials.
• When building smart cities: The Smart Cities Mission promotes sustainable construction, increasing the need for green materials.
• When state governments offer incentives: States provide incentives for green buildings, which often require using green materials.
• When seeking long-term cost savings: While the initial cost of some green materials might be higher, they lead to long-term savings.
• When seeking enhanced brand image: Developers use green materials to improve their reputation.
• When manufacturers seek competitive advantage: Offering green products can be a market differentiator.
• When skilled labor is available: As training programs grow, the use of green materials will become more feasible.
• When standards are clear: As standardization and monitoring improve, confidence in green materials will grow.
• When supply chains are robust: As green material supply chains mature, availability will increase.
• When technology advances: Ongoing innovation is making green materials more cost-effective and performant.
• When resisting change is no longer viable: As awareness grows, resistance to green building will decrease.
• When seeking global competitiveness: To compete globally, Indian industries must adopt sustainable practices.
• When seeking energy security: Reducing reliance on fossil fuels requires energy-efficient construction.
• When promoting a circular economy: Using recycled materials supports a circular economy.
• When promoting biodiversity: Using natural materials can support local ecosystems.
• When promoting water conservation: Green building practices often include water-efficient materials.
• When promoting responsible sourcing: Green materials prioritize ethical and sustainable sourcing.
• When promoting durability: Green materials are often chosen for their longevity.
• When promoting innovation: The green building sector drives innovation in material science.
• When promoting a healthy built environment: Green materials contribute to healthier buildings.
• When promoting climate resilience: Green buildings are often more resilient to climate change impacts.
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Where is require green material in India?

Green materials are increasingly required across India, driven by a combination of factors including:

1. Major Metropolitan Areas and Tier 1 Cities:

• Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Kolkata: These cities are at the forefront of green building adoption due to:
  • High Real Estate Development: Rapid urbanization and construction boom create significant demand for all materials, including green ones.
  • Corporate Demand: Many multinational and large Indian corporations are headquartered in these cities and have strong ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) commitments, leading them to demand green-certified office spaces and industrial facilities.
  • Increased Awareness: A higher level of environmental awareness among developers, architects, and end-users.
  • Presence of Green Building Projects: These cities have the highest concentration of IGBC and GRIHA certified green buildings across various typologies (commercial, residential, retail, hospitality, data centers). For example, Maharashtra (with Mumbai as a major hub) leads in the number of green projects in India, followed closely by Karnataka (Bengaluru). Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu also show significant green building activity.
  • State-Level Incentives: Many state governments and urban local bodies in these regions offer incentives like property tax rebates, expedited approvals, reduced permit fees, and increased FAR (Floor Area Ratio) for green-certified buildings. This directly encourages the use of green materials. (e.g., Mumbai offers additional FAR for ‘Gold’ rated green buildings; Chennai offers property tax rebates for water recycling and solar energy use; Bangalore provides rebates on water bills for rainwater harvesting).

2. Specific Building Typologies:

The requirement for green materials is particularly strong in:

• Commercial Buildings (Offices, IT Parks, Malls): Driven by corporate sustainability goals, tenant demand for healthy and energy-efficient spaces, and the pursuit of certifications like LEED and IGBC.
• Residential Projects (Especially Large Developments & High-End): Growing consumer awareness and preference for homes that offer lower utility bills, better indoor air quality, and contribute to sustainability. Developers are increasingly targeting green home certifications.
• Industrial Facilities and Factories: Companies with large manufacturing footprints are incorporating green materials to reduce operational costs, enhance their brand image, and comply with environmental regulations. IGBC has specific ratings for Green Factory Buildings.
• Government Buildings and Public Infrastructure: Central and state governments are increasingly adopting green public procurement policies, mandating the use of eco-friendly and energy-efficient materials in their own projects (e.g., government offices, railway stations, metro projects, smart city infrastructure).
• Educational Institutions and Hospitals: Driven by a focus on healthier environments for students and patients, and often by public funding mandates for sustainable construction.
• Data Centers: As energy-intensive facilities, new data centers are increasingly designed with green materials and energy-efficient technologies to reduce their massive environmental footprint.

3. Projects Seeking Green Building Certifications:

• Anywhere in India: If a project (regardless of its location) aims to achieve a green building certification from IGBC, GRIHA, or LEED India, it will inherently need to “require” green materials to earn the necessary credits. These certifications guide material selection based on criteria like recycled content, local sourcing, low embodied energy, rapidly renewable content, and low VOCs.

4. Projects Undergoing Major Renovations or Retrofits:

• Existing Buildings (Commercial, Residential, Industrial): While new construction often starts with green materials, there’s a growing focus on making existing buildings more sustainable. This “requires” the use of green materials during renovation to improve energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall environmental performance. IGBC and GRIHA also have specific ratings for existing buildings.

5. Within Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Industrial Parks:

• Many new SEZs and industrial parks are being developed with a focus on sustainability, encouraging or even mandating green building practices and the use of green materials for the industrial units within them.

In essence, while there isn’t a blanket pan-India law mandating green materials for every single construction project, the convergence of market forces, policy incentives, certification frameworks, and a growing understanding of long-term benefits is creating a strong and widespread requirement for green materials across urban centers and various building types in India.

How is require green material in India?

The “how” of requiring green materials in India is a multifaceted process involving a blend of policy, market demand, financial incentives, and voluntary frameworks. It’s not typically a universal, blanket mandate for all construction, but rather a system of encouragements and requirements that are increasingly pushing developers and builders towards sustainable choices.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of “how” green materials are required:

1. Through Green Building Certification Systems (The Primary Mechanism):

This is arguably the most significant way green materials are “required” in India.

• How it works: Organizations like the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) have developed comprehensive rating systems for various building types (e.g., Green Homes, Green New Buildings, Green Factory Buildings). These systems award “credits” or “points” for meeting specific sustainability criteria, a significant portion of which are dedicated to materials and resources.
• Examples of Material Requirements (for points/credits):
  • Recycled Content: Using materials with a high percentage of post-consumer or post-industrial recycled content (e.g., fly ash bricks, recycled steel, recycled concrete aggregates).
  • Local Sourcing: Prioritizing materials extracted and manufactured within a certain radius (e.g., 400-800 km) of the project site to reduce transportation emissions.
  • Rapidly Renewable Materials: Using materials from fast-growing plants (e.g., bamboo, jute, coir).
  • Salvaged/Reused Materials: Incorporating materials salvaged from demolition or renovation projects.
  • Low Embodied Energy: Selecting materials that require less energy to produce, transport, and install.
  • Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) Content: Specifying paints, adhesives, sealants, and flooring that emit minimal harmful chemicals, improving indoor air quality.
  • Certified Wood: Using wood from sustainably managed forests (though less common in India than other material types).
• The “Requirement” here is voluntary but incentivized: Developers choose to aim for these certifications to enhance their brand, meet client demands, or access government incentives. Once they commit to a certification level (e.g., IGBC Platinum, GRIHA 4-Star), they are then required by the chosen rating system to use materials that meet its specific criteria to achieve that rating.

2. Through Government Policies and Regulations (The Mandate/Encouragement):

While there isn’t a single “Green Materials Act,” various policies implicitly or explicitly encourage or mandate their use.

• Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC): Developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), the ECBC sets minimum energy performance standards for commercial buildings. To meet these standards (especially the stricter “ECBC Compliant” or “ECBC Plus” levels), buildings must incorporate energy-efficient materials. This includes:
  • High-performance insulation for roofs and walls.
  • High-performance windows (e.g., low-E glass, double glazing) to reduce heat gain.
  • How it works: While ECBC doesn’t directly list “green materials,” the performance requirements often necessitate their use. Some states have made ECBC mandatory for certain building types and sizes.
• National Building Code (NBC) of India 2016: This comprehensive code includes parts dedicated to sustainable building practices, water conservation, and solid waste management, indirectly promoting materials that support these goals.
• State-Level Incentives: Many state governments (e.g., Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, Delhi, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal) offer various incentives for green-certified buildings. These incentives (e.g., increased Floor Area Ratio (FAR), property tax rebates, reduced permit fees, expedited approvals) implicitly require the use of green materials to qualify for the green certification that unlocks these benefits.
• Green Public Procurement (GPP): Government departments and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are increasingly adopting policies to procure environmentally friendly products and materials for their own construction projects, setting an example.
• Ecomark Scheme & Green Credit Program: These government initiatives aim to promote environmentally friendly products (including building materials) and incentivize sustainable practices, creating a market for certified green materials.

3. Through Market Demand and Competitive Pressure (The “Pull” Factor):

• Client Requirements: Corporate clients, especially multinational companies, often have global sustainability targets that require their offices and facilities in India to be green-certified, directly driving the demand for green materials.
• Consumer Preference: In the residential sector, there’s growing awareness among homeowners about the benefits of green homes (lower utility bills, healthier living, better resale value). This consumer preference demands that developers offer homes built with green materials.
• Brand Image & ESG Compliance: Developers and construction companies use green materials to enhance their brand reputation, demonstrate corporate social responsibility (CSR), and meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria increasingly demanded by investors and financial institutions.

4. Through Professional Specifications (The “Design” Factor):

• Architects, Engineers, and Consultants: As more professionals become knowledgeable about green building practices, they actively specify green materials in their designs and project documentation, making it a requirement for contractors. This is often driven by their own commitment to sustainability and/or the client’s desire for a green building.

In essence, the “how” of requiring green materials in India is a layered approach. It starts with voluntary certification systems that create a strong framework, supported by government incentives and increasingly stringent energy codes, and propelled forward by growing market demand and the commitment of design professionals. This collective ecosystem is gradually making green materials a standard, rather than an exception, in Indian construction.

Case study on green material in India?

Courtesy: SSP Urban Infra

You’re asking for a fantastic example of green material application in India! Let’s explore a prominent case study that showcases how various green materials are integrated into real-world projects.

Case Study: CII-Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre, Hyderabad

This building is an iconic example of green construction in India, not just because it achieved the highest green building ratings, but also for its pioneering use of various sustainable materials. It serves as a benchmark for green buildings in the country.

1. Background:

• Project: CII-Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre (GBC)
• Location: Hyderabad, Telangana, India
• Purpose: The headquarters of the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), it was designed to be a living example and demonstration facility for green building concepts in a tropical climate.
• Year of Completion: 2004
• Key Achievement: It was the first LEED Platinum rated building in India (and the first in Asia outside of the US) for New Construction. This immediately set a very high bar for material selection and overall sustainability.

2. Objectives for Material Selection:

The design team aimed to:

• Minimize environmental impact through material choices.
• Reduce embodied energy (energy consumed in a material’s production, transport, and construction).
• Enhance indoor environmental quality (IEQ) for occupants.
• Promote the use of local and recycled content materials.
• Showcase the viability and benefits of green materials in an Indian context.

3. Green Materials & Technologies Applied:

The GBC strategically incorporated a wide range of green materials, often prioritizing those available locally and those with high recycled content:

• Fly Ash-Based Construction Materials:
  • Fly Ash Bricks: Significantly used for walls, replacing conventional clay bricks. This diverted a huge amount of industrial waste (fly ash from thermal power plants) from landfills, reduced energy consumption in manufacturing (no high-temperature firing required for all types), and minimized the use of virgin topsoil.
  • Fly Ash-Based Concrete: Utilized for structural elements, reducing the cement content (cement production is highly energy-intensive and carbon-emitting). Fly ash acts as a supplementary cementitious material.
• Recycled Steel: A significant portion of the steel used in the building’s structure had recycled content, reducing the demand for virgin iron ore and the high energy consumption associated with primary steel production.
• Local and Regionally Sourced Materials:
  • Kota Stone and Granite: Extensively used for flooring and external cladding. These natural stones are abundant in nearby regions of India, significantly reducing transportation distances and associated carbon emissions.
  • Locally Manufactured Cement and Aggregates: Sourcing these primary construction materials from local suppliers minimized the carbon footprint related to transportation.
• Low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Materials:
  • Low VOC Paints, Adhesives, and Sealants: Used throughout the interiors to ensure high indoor air quality for occupants. This drastically reduced the emission of harmful chemicals, contributing to a healthier and more productive work environment.
  • Low VOC Carpets and Flooring Adhesives: Similar to paints, these materials were chosen to prevent off-gassing of toxic compounds.
• Recycled Content Finishes:
  • Recycled Aluminium Sections: Used for window frames and partitions.
  • Acoustic Panels: Made from recycled materials where possible.
• Insulation Materials:
  • High-Performance Insulation: Used in the roof and walls to reduce heat gain from the hot Hyderabad climate, significantly cutting down on air conditioning loads and thus energy consumption. The specifics might include rock wool, mineral wool, or advanced foam insulation with low Ozone Depleting Potential (ODP).
• High-Performance Glass:
  • Double Glazed Units (DGUs) with Low-E (Low-Emissivity) Coating: Used for windows and curtain walls. This sophisticated glass significantly reduces solar heat gain while allowing natural light, minimizing the need for artificial lighting and further reducing cooling loads.
• Renewable Wood (Limited Use, but Specified): While timber usage was limited, any wood products specified were from sustainably managed forests, aligning with responsible forestry practices.

4. Outcomes and Impact of Green Material Use:

The strategic selection and application of green materials contributed significantly to the GBC’s overall success:

• Achieved LEED Platinum Certification: The extensive use of high-recycled content, local, and low-VOC materials was a major factor in securing this prestigious rating.
• Significant Reduction in Embodied Energy: By prioritizing fly ash, recycled steel, and local stone, the building drastically lowered the “hidden” energy associated with its construction materials.
• Enhanced Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ): The use of low-VOC materials created a healthier and more comfortable interior environment for employees and visitors, contributing to well-being and productivity.
• Reduced Waste to Landfills: The high usage of fly ash and other recycled content materials diverted considerable waste from landfills.
• Lower Operational Costs: Materials like high-performance insulation and low-E glass directly contributed to a highly energy-efficient building envelope, reducing the energy demand for cooling and lighting, leading to significant operational cost savings over the building’s lifespan.
• Demonstration and Awareness: The GBC served as a living laboratory and a powerful demonstration of how green materials can be effectively integrated into a high-performance building in India. It inspired countless other projects to adopt similar material strategies.
• Market Transformation: Its success helped to stimulate the demand for and supply of green building materials in the Indian market, encouraging manufacturers to develop and offer more sustainable alternatives.

Conclusion:

The CII-Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre in Hyderabad stands as a testament to the power and practicality of green materials in India. It successfully showcased that by making conscious choices in material selection – favoring recycled content, local sourcing, and materials that enhance performance and indoor quality – buildings can achieve world-class sustainability benchmarks, reduce environmental impact, and provide superior spaces for occupants. It remains a foundational case study in India’s green building journey.

White paper on green material in India?

White Paper: The Evolving Landscape of Green Materials in India

Executive Summary:

India’s construction sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, positioning it as a pivotal player in the nation’s economic development. However, this growth comes with a significant environmental footprint. This white paper examines the critical role of “green materials” in mitigating this impact, exploring the current landscape, key drivers, existing frameworks for adoption, and the persistent challenges. With a market projected to reach USD 39.01 Billion by 2033 (IMARC Group), the transition to green materials is not merely an environmental imperative but a burgeoning economic opportunity, driven by policy, market demand, and a growing consciousness towards sustainable development.

1. Introduction: Defining Green Materials in the Indian Context

Green materials, also known as sustainable or eco-friendly building materials, are those that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their entire life cycle. In India, this definition is particularly relevant given the country’s diverse climate zones, abundant traditional materials, and significant industrial waste streams. Key characteristics include:

• Low Environmental Impact: Minimizing pollution, carbon emissions, and resource depletion from extraction to disposal.
• Resource Efficiency: Maximizing the use of recycled content, rapidly renewable resources, and locally sourced materials.
• Health and Well-being: Contributing to improved indoor air quality and occupant comfort by limiting harmful emissions.
• Durability and Longevity: Ensuring a long lifespan to reduce the need for frequent replacement.
• Recyclability and Reusability: Facilitating a circular economy by allowing materials to be repurposed at end-of-life.

2. The Imperative for Green Materials in India

The urgency for adopting green materials in India stems from several critical factors:

• Rapid Urbanization and Construction Boom: India is undergoing massive infrastructure and housing development, placing immense pressure on natural resources and generating vast amounts of construction and demolition (C&D) waste.
• Climate Change Commitments: As a signatory to the Paris Agreement and with a Net Zero target by 2070, India needs to drastically reduce its carbon emissions. The built environment is a significant contributor to these emissions.
• Resource Depletion: Over-reliance on virgin materials (e.g., sand, aggregates, water) is unsustainable. Green materials offer alternatives by utilizing waste or renewable resources.
• Energy Security: Materials that enhance a building’s thermal performance reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling, contributing to national energy security.
• Health and Productivity: Poor indoor air quality from conventional materials impacts occupant health and productivity. Low-VOC green materials offer a healthier alternative.
• Global Competitiveness: International investors and buyers are increasingly prioritizing sustainable practices, pushing Indian developers to align with global ESG standards.

3. Key Green Material Categories and Applications in India

India’s green material landscape is rich and diverse, leveraging both traditional wisdom and modern innovation:

• Waste-Derived Materials:
  • Fly Ash Bricks: Utilizing waste from thermal power plants, these bricks are lighter, stronger, and more consistent than traditional clay bricks, significantly reducing land pollution and energy consumption.
  • Recycled Aggregates & Concrete: C&D waste is crushed and repurposed as aggregates in new concrete mixes, conserving natural resources and minimizing landfill burden.
  • Recycled Steel & Aluminium: Widely used in structural elements, these materials drastically cut down on the embodied energy compared to virgin metal production.
  • Plastic Waste Products: Innovative uses include plastic lumber, roofing tiles, and paver blocks, addressing the massive plastic waste challenge.
  • Rice Husk Ash Concrete: Using agricultural waste as a supplementary cementitious material to reduce cement content.
• Natural & Locally Sourced Materials:
  • Bamboo: A rapidly renewable resource, increasingly used for structural components, flooring, and interior finishes.
  • Rammed Earth/Adobe: Traditional techniques using compacted local soil, offering excellent thermal mass and minimal embodied energy.
  • Local Stone (e.g., Kota Stone, Granite): Reduces transportation emissions and offers durability.
  • Jute and Coir: Natural fibers used for insulation, acoustic panels, and composites.
• Engineered & High-Performance Materials:
  • Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Blocks: Lightweight, highly insulating blocks that improve thermal performance and reduce structural load.
  • Low VOC Paints, Adhesives, and Sealants: Essential for improving indoor air quality by minimizing the release of harmful volatile organic compounds.
  • High-Performance Glass: Low-E coatings and double-glazed units (DGUs) reduce heat transfer through windows, crucial for energy-efficient facades in diverse Indian climates.
  • Insulation Materials (e.g., Mineral Wool, Rock Wool): Used in roofs and walls to reduce heat gain/loss, significantly cutting down on HVAC energy consumption.

4. Drivers and Policy Frameworks Promoting Green Materials in India

The increasing adoption of green materials is propelled by a multi-pronged approach:

• Green Building Rating Systems:
  • Indian Green Building Council (IGBC): A pioneer in India, IGBC’s various rating systems (e.g., Green New Buildings, Green Homes, Green Factory Building) explicitly award points for the use of materials with recycled content, local sourcing, low embodied energy, and low VOCs. Certification is a key driver for developers.
  • GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment): India’s national rating system, endorsed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), also prioritizes sustainable material selection as a core component of its evaluation.
• Government Policies and Regulations:
  • Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC): While not directly mandating specific green materials, its stringent energy performance requirements for commercial buildings (and upcoming for residential with ECBC-R) necessitate the use of highly insulating and energy-efficient materials.
  • National Building Code (NBC) 2016 (with recent amendments): Incorporates sections promoting sustainable construction practices, resource efficiency, and waste management.
  • State-Specific Incentives: Numerous state governments (e.g., Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu) offer direct and indirect incentives for green-certified buildings, such as property tax rebates, additional Floor Area Ratio (FAR), and expedited approvals, making green materials economically attractive.
  • Green Public Procurement (GPP): A growing trend where government bodies and PSUs prioritize procurement of eco-friendly materials for their projects, leading by example.
  • Ecomark Scheme & Green Credit Program: These initiatives aim to certify and promote environmentally friendly products and practices, building a market for green materials.
• Market Demand and Corporate Sustainability:
  • Corporate ESG Mandates: Large corporations and multinational companies increasingly demand green-certified buildings to align with their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments.
  • Consumer Preference: Growing awareness among homeowners about healthier living spaces, lower utility bills, and the resale value of green homes is creating a strong consumer pull for sustainable construction.
  • Developer Differentiation: Green materials offer a competitive advantage, allowing developers to differentiate their projects in a crowded market.

5. Challenges in Green Material Adoption in India

Despite the significant progress, several hurdles need to be addressed:

• Perceived High Initial Cost: While green materials often offer long-term operational savings, their upfront cost can sometimes be higher than conventional alternatives, deterring some developers, especially in the affordable housing segment.
• Limited Awareness and Knowledge: A significant gap exists among various stakeholders (small and medium contractors, local masons, smaller developers) regarding the benefits, proper application, and availability of green materials.
• Fragmented Supply Chain: The consistent availability and standardized quality of certain green materials, especially those derived from waste, can be a challenge outside major urban centers.
• Lack of Skilled Manpower: Insufficient trained labor for handling and applying specific green materials can be a barrier to wider adoption.
• Absence of Comprehensive Standardization and Certification: While rating systems exist, broader national standards and quality assurance for all types of green materials need to be strengthened.
• “Greenwashing” Concerns: The proliferation of products claiming to be “green” without verifiable certifications can lead to mistrust and hinder genuine adoption.
• Policy Implementation Gaps: While policies exist, effective implementation, monitoring, and enforcement at the ground level remain crucial.

6. Opportunities and Recommendations for Future Growth

The Indian green materials market is poised for robust growth. To accelerate this transition, the following opportunities and recommendations are critical:

• Enhance Awareness and Capacity Building:
  • Launch nationwide campaigns to educate developers, contractors, architects, and the public on the benefits and practicalities of green materials.
  • Integrate green material courses into architecture, engineering, and vocational training programs.
  • Conduct workshops and training sessions for masons and construction workers.
• Strengthen Policy and Incentives:
  • Standardize and streamline state-level incentives for green buildings and the use of green materials.
  • Explore viability gap funding or low-interest loans for green material manufacturing units.
  • Mandate green public procurement at all government levels.
  • Develop a robust, easily accessible database of certified green materials and suppliers.
• Foster Research & Development and Innovation:
  • Invest in R&D for cost-effective, high-performance green materials from local waste streams.
  • Encourage development of modular and pre-fabricated green building components.
  • Promote innovative uses of traditional sustainable materials.
• Develop Robust Supply Chains:
  • Support the establishment of green material manufacturing clusters, especially near waste-generating industries.
  • Incentivize logistics and distribution networks for green materials to remote areas.
• Standardization and Quality Assurance:
  • Develop comprehensive BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) standards specifically for green building materials, including performance benchmarks and testing protocols.
  • Strengthen certification mechanisms to ensure credibility and combat greenwashing.
• Promote Circular Economy Principles:
  • Incentivize C&D waste recycling plants and the use of recycled materials in new projects.
  • Encourage product take-back schemes by manufacturers for materials at end-of-life.

7. Conclusion:

India’s journey towards sustainable construction hinges significantly on the widespread adoption of green materials. While challenges remain, the robust policy support, growing market demand, and increasing environmental consciousness are creating a fertile ground for their proliferation. By addressing the existing barriers through targeted policies, robust supply chain development, and extensive awareness campaigns, India has the potential not only to green its own built environment but also to emerge as a global leader in the production and application of sustainable building materials. The future of India’s infrastructure is not just about growth, but about green growth, and green materials are at the very core of this transformation.

Industrial Application of green material in India?

The industrial application of green materials in India is a rapidly evolving area, driven by a confluence of sustainability goals, regulatory pushes, cost efficiency, and enhanced brand image. Beyond the construction of green buildings themselves (like factories and warehouses), it extends to the materials used within the manufacturing processes and in the products themselves.

Here’s a breakdown of how green materials are being applied industrially in India:

I. Green Materials in Industrial Infrastructure & Construction (Factories, Warehouses, Industrial Parks):

This is where the principles of green building directly apply to the industrial sector.

1. Fly Ash Bricks/Blocks & Blended Cements:
   • Application: Widely used for constructing factory walls, warehouses, and other industrial structures. Fly ash is a byproduct of thermal power plants.
   • Industrial Benefit: Reduces the environmental footprint of cement and brick production, addresses waste disposal, offers good thermal insulation (reducing HVAC loads in large industrial spaces), and is often cost-effective due to local availability.
   • Examples: Many new industrial parks and manufacturing units aiming for IGBC Green Factory Building or GRIHA certifications extensively use these. Companies like ACC, Ambuja, and Ultratech produce blended cements with fly ash or slag.
2. Recycled Steel & Aggregates:
   • Application: Primary structural components (beams, columns) for large factory sheds, pre-engineered buildings (PEBs), and foundations. Recycled concrete aggregates are used in new concrete mixes.
   • Industrial Benefit: Significant reduction in embodied energy (steel production is very energy-intensive), conservation of virgin resources, and reduction of construction & demolition (C&D) waste.
   • Examples: Steel manufacturers like Tata Steel are increasing their use of scrap in electric arc furnaces (EAFs) for “green steel” production. Large-scale industrial projects are increasingly opting for C&D waste recycling for aggregates.
3. Insulated Sandwich Panels & Cool Roofing:
   • Application: External walls and roofs of factories, cold storage units, and warehouses, particularly in hot climates. These panels typically consist of an insulating core (e.g., PUF, mineral wool) sandwiched between metal sheets. Cool roofing uses high-reflectivity paints/coatings.
   • Industrial Benefit: Dramatically reduces heat gain, leading to significant savings in air conditioning (HVAC) energy consumption for temperature-controlled environments (e.g., food processing, pharmaceutical, electronics manufacturing). Reduces the “urban heat island” effect around industrial complexes.
   • Examples: Companies involved in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and cold chain logistics heavily invest in these to maintain product integrity and reduce energy bills. Many PEB manufacturers offer integrated cool roofing and insulated panel solutions.
4. Low VOC Paints, Coatings & Flooring:
   • Application: Interior finishes for factory floors, clean rooms, administrative blocks, and worker facilities.
   • Industrial Benefit: Improves indoor air quality, which is crucial for worker health, safety, and productivity. This is particularly important in industries where chemical fumes or dust might be present. Compliance with occupational health standards.
   • Examples: Pharmaceutical units, electronics assembly plants, and food processing facilities prioritize these to meet stringent hygiene and air quality norms.
5. Bamboo & Engineered Wood Products:
   • Application: Non-structural elements, interior finishes in office spaces within industrial complexes, or for temporary structures.
   • Industrial Benefit: Renewable resource, lower embodied energy, and provides aesthetic appeal in non-process areas.

II. Green Materials in Industrial Manufacturing Processes & Products:

This involves the core operations of industries, where green materials are used as feedstocks or as part of sustainable production.

1. Circular Economy & Waste-to-Resource:
   • Application: Industries are increasingly looking at their own waste products or those from other industries as raw materials.
   • Industrial Benefit: Reduces raw material costs, minimizes waste disposal liabilities, creates new revenue streams, and enhances resource efficiency.
   • Examples:
     • Cement Industry: Utilizes various industrial wastes (blast furnace slag from steel, fly ash from power plants, red mud from aluminum production) as clinker substitutes in “green cement” production.
     • Steel Industry: Increased recycling of steel scrap in EAFs, moving towards “green steel” production with reduced reliance on virgin iron ore.
     • Textile Industry: Recycling textile waste into new fibers or non-woven materials; using natural dyes; waterless dyeing techniques.
     • Automobile Industry: Using recycled plastics, metals, and rubber in vehicle components (e.g., floor mats, bumpers, tire components).
     • Paper Industry: Using agricultural residues (bagasse, wheat straw) alongside wood pulp, and increasing the use of recycled paper.
2. Bio-based & Biodegradable Materials:
   • Application: Packaging, single-use items, and even certain product components.
   • Industrial Benefit: Addresses concerns about plastic pollution, reduces reliance on petrochemicals, and aligns with consumer demand for eco-friendly products.
   • Examples:
     • Food & FMCG: Packaging made from sugarcane bagasse, corn starch, or other biodegradable polymers for food containers, cutlery, and trays.
     • Consumer Goods: Biodegradable sanitary products, personal care items with natural ingredients.
     • Agricultural Sector: Biodegradable mulching films, pots, and packaging derived from crop residues.
3. Sustainable Sourcing of Raw Materials:
   • Application: Many industries are reviewing their supply chains to ensure raw materials are sourced ethically and sustainably.
   • Industrial Benefit: Risk mitigation (e.g., avoiding deforestation, exploitation), enhanced brand reputation, and meeting international compliance standards (e.g., FSC for wood, sustainable palm oil).
   • Examples: Food and beverage companies sourcing certified sustainable palm oil or coffee. Apparel brands using organic cotton or recycled polyester.

III. Driving Forces for Industrial Application in India:

• Corporate Sustainability Goals: Many large Indian and multinational corporations operating in India have ambitious sustainability targets (e.g., Net Zero emissions, circular economy goals) that directly translate into demand for green materials and green manufacturing processes.
• Cost Savings: Reduced energy consumption (due to better insulation, efficient materials) and lower waste disposal costs offer direct financial benefits.
• Regulatory Pressure: Stricter environmental regulations, C&D waste management rules, and industry-specific emission norms push industries towards cleaner production and material choices.
• Market Demand & Investor Pressure: Growing demand for sustainable products from consumers and increasing pressure from investors (ESG criteria) compel manufacturers to adopt green practices.
• Green Building Certifications for Industrial Buildings: IGBC and GRIHA offer specific ratings for industrial facilities (e.g., IGBC Green Factory Building), providing a structured pathway for integrating green materials and practices.

The industrial application of green materials in India is not just about building greener factories, but also about transforming the entire industrial value chain – from raw material sourcing and manufacturing processes to product design and end-of-life management, increasingly embracing circular economy principles.

References

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