Through innovation, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and collaboration, Keestrack is contributing to India’s net-zero emissions goal and climate action strategy, and we remain committed to furthering our efforts in line with evolving environmental standards.
Keestrack - Marcel Kerkhofs, Global Marketing Manager, Keestrack N.V. & Deepak Pandit, Country Manager Sales & Marketing India
The construction industry is responsible for 6-10% of the world’s greenhouse gases. However, it is promoting sustainable, eco-friendly practices in products and operations through various means such as launching educational campaigns to raise awareness among industry stakeholders on how machines can help reduce carbon emissions through optimized fuel consumption, intelligent operation, and remote monitoring. Encouraging collaboration between industry players, technology providers, and environmental organizations to share best practices, case studies, and success stories, and establishing platforms for knowledge exchange can drive sustainability across the industry.
Tax benefits, grants & funding as incentives
Governments and regulatory bodies can introduce incentives and subsidies for construction companies in the form of tax benefits, grants, or financial assistance, making it more financially viable for businesses to adopt sustainable technologies. Developing industry-wide standards and certifications that recognize environmental-friendly products and manufacturing processes and standards can be used as benchmarks for evaluating the sustainability performance of construction projects and play a significant role in procurement decisions.
Encouraging research and development in machine technologies to continually improve their environmental performance, investing in innovations such as hybrid or electric-powered equipment, advanced energy management systems, and predictive maintenance capabilities to minimize downtime and optimize efficiency, organizing training programs and workshops to equip industry professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate and maintain machines effectively, and upskilling the workforce, will foster greater acceptance and utilization of these technologies.
Innovating to transition towards a greener future
As an internationally renowned manufacturer of mobile crushing and screening equipment, the company intends to be at the forefront of the construction industry’s drive toward a zero-emissions future and a circular economy. A focus on sustainability is at the core of our operations as Keestrack started its business in recycling. When expanding in other industries like quarrying & mining and aggregates production, we kept on researching on alternative drive systems and how to use as less fuel as possible since these heavy-duty industries need very powerful drive systems. From load sensing hydraulics to e-drives, we are now going to Zero drives. All these efforts are having a positive impact on the ecological footprint.
Aligning with global sustainability goals
We have set our own decarbonization target to align with global sustainability goals. We are transitioning to EV electric plug-in company cars and installing electric charging locations at all facilities. We continuously invest in research and development of advanced equipment designs that prioritize fuel efficiency and optimize performance. Our engineering teams focus on incorporating cleaner and more sustainable power sources, such as electric plug-in and hybrid technologies, into our equipment.
Improving resource management, waste reduction, and recycling practices
We have implemented a comprehensive zero waste policy across our manufacturing plants and the manufacturing processes are constantly evaluated to identify areas for improvement in resource management, waste reduction, and recycling practices. We collaborate closely with our suppliers to encourage sustainable practices throughout the supply chain and we work with partners who share our commitment to adopt greener technologies and materials.
Newer technologies and alternative fuels to reduce greenhouse gases in equipment
To minimize greenhouse gas emissions, we have been exploring and implementing various innovative technologies:
E-drive and drop-off engine: Keestrack introduced electric drives in 2012 by the e-drive; electric plug-in with onboard diesel/gen-set in case there is no electric plug-in available. The e-driven machines evolved to equipment with a drop-off engine/gen set unit which could be placed next to the equipment in less dusty and vibrant circumstances, or on the frame of the machine.
R3e- Plugin ElectricB7e drop off: By replacing traditional diesel engines with electric motors, we significantly reduce carbon emissions and improve performance. The interconnectivity between the electric equipment results in an even higher efficiency when producing in a production train.
B7e drop off
The external drop-off engine/gen set unit, on the complete right, powering up the primary and secondary production line of two No.’s B7e Zero drive machines.Currently, electric drive systems are the greenest and most effective options in the market, as they are more efficient than conventional hydraulic systems. But it also makes the end-user less dependent on a specific engine supplier. If there is no electric plug-in available, the end-user can choose his own gen-set or select one of Keestrack’s (tracked) engine/gen-set units. Keestrack will keep looking into other drive systems like hydrogen, fuel cells, and battery packs and will be at the forefront of new innovations.
Compared to conventional diesel-hydraulic units, diesel-electric driven plants directly save up to 33% of fuel. While working in production trains, the attributable fuel consumption can be reduced even more, when the hybrid screens and stackers are powered directly via the plug-out supply of an upstream or downstream electric crusher. When plugged in to the grid savings are even bigger, (depending on the local electricity price), as operational costs and maintenance cost will decrease drastically.
The tracked engine unit M5, with integrated gen-set, can power several electric driven machines in case there is no plug-in connection from the grid available.Biofuels: Keestrack mobile crushing and screening equipment can run on biofuels which are normally locally produced, clean-burning, and a renewable substitute for petroleum and diesel. Using biodiesel increases energy security, improves air quality and the environment, reduces lifecycle emissions because carbon dioxide released from biodiesel combustion is offset by the carbon dioxide absorbed from growing soybeans or other feedstocks used to produce the fuel.
New Research: Keestrack is researching and evaluating alternative fuels, including biofuels and hydrogen, as potential options for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By exploring these alternatives, we aim to further enhance the sustainability of our equipment and contribute to a greener future. Our ongoing efforts in adopting these technologies and exploring alternative fuels align with our commitment to environmental stewardship. We continue to invest in research and development to ensure that our equipment not only meets but exceeds environmental standards.
R3e- Plugin ElectricPotential of connected machines
Our Keestracker telematics software offers several benefits that align with the industry’s green objectives as it can monitor and report all possible parameters of the equipment from a distance without having to travel on-site to the equipment. Also, maintenance can be planned more accurately which is essential for a smooth-running machine.
Notable initiatives to reduce carbon emissions
The drop-off engine unit, with integrated gen-set, can be placed on the tracked platform, on the chassis of the machine, or just next to the equipment, and can power several electric driven machines in case there is no plug-in connection from the grid available resulting in less CO2, less maintenance and less costs.Our focus on electrically powered machinery is a significant step towards reducing emissions and creating a sustainable future. These electric models offer zero-emission operation, contributing to cleaner and healthier work environments.
We also prioritize recycling and waste management in our operations. By implementing effective waste management systems and encouraging responsible disposal of materials, we aim to minimize the environmental impact associated with our manufacturing and production processes.
Keestrack’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond our products and processes. We actively collaborate with customers, industry partners, and government bodies to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices throughout the construction and mining sectors. We remain dedicated to exploring new avenues and technologies that contribute to the reduction of emissions.
