Going green is buzzword in PEB

Going green is buzzword in PEB
“Steel is an inherently green product and has a smaller impact on the environment as compared to traditional brick and mortar construction,” said Arvind Nanda, CEO and Founder Director, Interarch Building Products
Over the last decade, PEB industry has seen an upward growth pattern only. Arvind Nanda, CEO and Founder Director, Interarch Building Products, shares his in-depth views about the industry and the importance of going green.
How has the Indian PEB industry evolved over the years?If you look at how people and the stakeholders have accepted the concept and have come this far with their perception widening over the period, they have definitely tried and preferred metal construction for obvious reasons.
Even the government norms and reforms have been helping as the 12th Five-Year Plan has been supportive. However, there is always a scope for improvement as the sector looks promising and there is a lot of potential for the country and the sector. We are positive.
What are the advantages of PEB over conventional structures?Pre-engineered construction is about 10 per cent more expensive than conventional steel or concrete construction. However, this is more than compensated by the quality of the products and the fast delivery of the facility.
Where does India stand compared to other countries in terms of use of PEB?We still have a long way to go. As of now, we are steady which is good. West is west because of multiple reasons: the way people think, perceive, and implement. All these are different so it will not be fair to compare all aspects. But yes, we certainly have been taking inspiration from the west.
How is the industry coping to challenges like skilled manpower, presence of alternative building structure, and fluctuating raw materials?The challenges are all manageable. If you are running a leading construction company, the challenges doesn’t pose a hurdle as one has no time to stop and ponder over the challenges. Our team is extremely efficient, and issues like fluctuating steel prices and competition do not concern us much. We tackle it just fine.
What are the recent innovations in the sector?This growth puts India on a respectable position globally. It also demands a certain level of responsibilities toward the country’s greener environment and natural resource conservation. These days, going green is the buzz word.
Now all the big projects like the upcoming airports, stadiums, IT parks, metro stations, industrial buildings, manufacturing facilities, etc. are asking about green buildings and LEED certification. These are not only for the initial benefits provided by the government but because of long-run benefits like energy conservation, corporate social responsibility obligations, and positive impact on the brand image of the company and publicity.
The constructions done by Interarch have contributed toward better green construction as steel is an inherently green product and has a smaller impact on the environment as compared to traditional brick and mortar construction. Steel constructions also help in resisting earthquake tremors, termites and natural parasites, water corrosion, and fire and moisture damage. “I am green” initiative focuses on creating a comprehensive move by the company toward generating a better, more eco-friendly construction solutions and building projects. Interarch has made buildings that are 100 per cent steel and up to 90 per cent recyclable. This, in turn, helps in saving primary resources and reduces waste. The exclusive designs of the buildings help in proper air flow and control temperature and provide healthy and comfortable indoor working environment, while using less electricity for cooling and ventilation. These buildings have a longer life and are very easy to maintain.
How do you see use of PEB in residential segment?As the growth pattern dictates, people have become more experimental and are trying metal construction for residential purposes. We have brought farm houses, restaurants and cottages on hilly terrains in steel. Our specialised product — Interarch light gauge framing systems — are suiting this purpose to the best.
What are your opinions on the recent budget?This is a fair, growth-oriented budget with good intentions for inclusive, sustainable development. The budget seems to have a long-term aim of bringing up the ailing economy. The announcements are positive, but we have to see how these are implemented.
PEB Advantage• Steel structure (strength and durability)• Can be customised to meet specific requirement, i.e. shape, size and design• Time saving for construction• No pollution during construction• Use of nontoxic green materials• Insulation system reduces energy consumption and acts as sound barrier from outside• Earthquake and wind residence• Termite proof• Waterproof, fire proof and moisture proof• Longer life span and easy to maintain• Dismantling possibilities if required.

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