Sustainable Development and the Transformation of India’s Construction Industry

Abstract

The construction industry in India is undergoing a critical transformation as it seeks to balance rapid economic growth with the imperatives of sustainable development. Contributing over 9% to the national GVA and poised to reach nearly 13% of GDP by 2025, the sector remains a cornerstone of infrastructure expansion and urbanization. However, it is also one of the largest consumers of energy and natural resources, generating massive amounts of construction and demolition waste and contributing significantly to carbon emissions. In response, the industry is embracing regulatory reforms, energy-efficient building codes, waste management frameworks, and green rating systems, while adopting innovative technologies such as prefabrication, modular design, BIM, and green materials. Despite persistent challenges including cost barriers, informal waste management practices, and skill gaps, the sector is progressively aligning with India’s commitments to net-zero targets, circular economy principles, and global sustainability goals, paving the way for a resilient and low-carbon future.