India's Cement Sector Leads in Sustainability but Faces Emission Challenges
India's cement industry is recognized for its sustainable practices and low emissions, yet challenges from limestone burning persist. Industry-Government collaboration and carbon credits are seen as key drivers for future advancements, according to Shree Cement's Joint President, Saurabh Palsania, during the Global Summit on Sustainability 2025.
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The Indian cement industry is being hailed as a global leader in sustainable practices, according to Saurabh Palsania, Joint President at Shree Cement. Despite significant advancements, the sector continues to grapple with challenges, particularly in reducing emissions during limestone burning, a crucial part of cement production.
Speaking at the Global Summit on Sustainability 2025, organized by PHDCCI, Palsania noted that Indian cement companies have already surpassed their global counterparts in various areas. Currently, 75% of India's cement output is blended cement, significantly higher than international averages. Indian companies also excel in thermal energy efficiency, surpassing European standards.
However, effective emission reduction from limestone burning remains a formidable hurdle. Palsania emphasized the necessity for robust partnerships between industry and government to make carbon capture, utilization, and storage economically viable. He pointed to the Indian government's Carbon Credit Trading Scheme as a potential transformative force, provided carbon credits are priced competitively to enable essential financing for the industry.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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