Active adoption of geosynthetic materials in construction can be a pivotal step towards achieving sustainable infrastructure goals
In the wake of escalating global temperatures and the escalating unpredictability of weather patterns, the repercussions of climate change have materialised in myriad forms, ranging from landslides to earthquakes and various other natural calamities. Regrettably, these environmental tolls are not mere happenstance; rather, they are the direct fallout of decades steeped in injurious construction practices, unorganised development, and unsustainable infrastructure approaches.
According to the latest report produced by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and Down to Earth (DTE), extreme weather events occurred in India daily from January to September. During these nine months, these unforeseen disasters have claimed 2,923 lives in the country.
Illustrating the urgency of the situation is the recent tunnel failure in Uttarakhand, a poignant example where 41 labourers found themselves entrapped in the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel for over two weeks. Triggered by a landslide, the tunnel's entrance collapsed, leaving it impassable. Similarly, we have been witnessing bridge collapses happen quite frequently every few months.
According to the Accidental Deaths and Suicides Report in India, eight accidental bridge collapses occurred in 2021. Also, a report in the international journal Structure and Infrastructure Engineering disclosed that the average lifespan of bridges in India stands at a mere 35 years, significantly trailing the global average of 50.
Climate change not only takes a toll on human lives but also inflicts substantial damage on the nation's infrastructure and economy. According to a recent report by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), the annual average loss of infrastructure due to natural disasters and climate change is $700 billion.
Well, all the above data affirms that the construction sector contributes to climate change while also inflicting substantial economic losses. All this underscores the imperative need for a seismic shift in our approach and we need to reassess and recalibrate our construction methodologies. The country needs to completely adopt sustainable construction techniques that not only fortify infrastructure but also serve as a buffer against the far-reaching impacts of climate-related disasters.
This is a global responsibility, and developing nations like India can play a significant role in curbing carbon emissions. The COP28 summit has provided the appropriate platform for nations to come together and address the challenges posed by the construction sector in the context of climate change. This global platform is serving as a conduit for sharing and creating awareness regarding low-carbon emission practices.
In his address at COP28, PM Modi introduced the Green Credit Initiative, which focused on creating carbon sinks through people’s participation. It is an innovative market-based mechanism designed to reward voluntary environmental actions in different sectors by individuals, communities, and the private sector. Such initiatives are poised to inspire diverse sectors to embrace and adopt sustainable practices.
Furthermore, PM Modi urged wealthy nations to transfer technologies to help developing nations combat climate change, emphasising the importance of international collaboration in shaping a sustainable future.
Essential Sustainable Construction Practices for Developing Nations
Sustainable construction is the need of the hour and integrating it into the country's development programmes is crucial. This approach is designed with various environmental goals in mind and is prepared according to the local environment and landscape. Engineered to endure natural disasters such as earthquakes, storms, and floods, sustainable structures employ robust materials and advanced engineering techniques, ensuring resilience in adverse conditions.
In addressing current needs, the active adoption of geosynthetic materials in construction can be a pivotal step towards achieving sustainable infrastructure goals. Geosynthetic materials not only align with stringent environmental standards but also contribute to cost and time efficiency in project execution. So, it’s imperative to include these kinds of construction practices.
Achieving National Growth Through Sustainable Development
Tailored slope stabilisation measures, like soil nailing and rock bolting, are crucial for slope stability in hilly terrains. Managing water runoff through effective drainage systems and erosion control strategies is imperative, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas. These measures not only bolster the structural integrity of buildings but also substantially reduce reconstruction costs post-damage.
As the world's fifth-largest economy, it's time we must transition towards sustainable and low-carbon practices and extend our focus beyond mere repairs and reconstruction. In doing so, we lay the groundwork for a future that is not only resilient in the face of environmental challenges but also harmonises economic development with the imperative of environmental sustainability.