Shillong: Experts and policymakers gathered in Shillong on Tuesday to back Limestone Calcined Clay Cement, or LC3, as the solution for decarbonizing the Northeast construction industry. The workshop, hosted by TARA and NECTAR, highlighted how this sustainable material can replace standard cement while maintaining structural integrity.
Shrashtant Patara, CEO of Development Alternatives, opened the event with a blunt warning. The region currently holds a positive carbon balance, but unchecked infrastructure growth threatens to flip that status. "While the Northeast is currently carbon-positive, rapid infrastructure development could shift this balance unless green technologies are integrated," Patara said.
Dr. Soumen Maity of TARA noted that the region possesses the limestone and clay needed for large-scale production. He wants to see scientific resource mapping to bring in heavy investment. Meanwhile, North Eastern Council Secretary Satinder Kumar Bhalla confirmed that the Bureau of Indian Standards already regulates the product, clearing the path for builders. Success now rests on better policy support and financial incentives.
Dr. Arun Sarma, heading NECTAR, expects the shift to create local jobs. Manufacturers stand to gain from carbon credits, too. The session ended with a unified push to make the Northeast a hub for sustainable building.
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