In the wake of a growing climate crisis and increasing demand for eco-friendly wood alternatives in construction, Indowud NFC emerges as a groundbreaking solution.
Having worked extensively in the plywood and panel industries, B L Bengani saw the environmental devastation caused by the over-reliance on wood products. Determined to find a sustainable solution, he pioneered the development of NFC, which uses agricultural waste instead of wood. That’s how Indowud NFC was born.
A natural fibre composite (NFC) product, Indowud NFC is an innovative, sustainable alternative to traditional wood-based panels such as plywood and MDF/HDF. With a commitment to revolutionising the building materials industry while contributing positively to the environment, Indowud NFC is changing how we think about wood.
Bengani, who previously founded Uniply, brought over 30 years of industry experience to this new venture.
A zero-wood product
Indowud NFC is not just a product; it represents a movement towards sustainability. Composed entirely of agricultural husks, Indowud NFC contains no wood particles, making it a zero-wood product. This innovation positions it as a superior alternative to tropical wood and wood-based panels that deplete natural forests. By harnessing the potential of natural fibres, the product combines strength and durability with environmental responsibility.
The product offers multiple benefits including termite-proof, water-proof, and flame-retardant properties. It even acts as a smoke suppressant and anti-rodent solution, making it versatile for various applications. Additionally, Indowud NFC emits no harmful chemicals, including formaldehyde, which is a significant advancement over traditional wood-based panels.
The natural wood-like appearance of Indowud NFC means it can be printed, painted, stained, varnished, or overlaid with veneer and laminate. Its superior screw-holding capability and machinability make it a preferred choice for architects and designers. Indowud NFC’s ability to be thermoformed also opens doors for creative, imaginative projects, allowing intricate designs to come to life.
Indowud NFC’s contribution to sustainability has been widely recognised. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has certified Indowud NFC as a Sustainable Green Product, awarding it the prestigious GreenPro Ecolabel. Products bearing this label are recognised for their low environmental impact and contribution to green buildings and companies. This certification is globally accredited by the Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN), further validating the product’s environmental credentials.
The Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for Indowud NFC adds another layer of transparency, quantifying the product’s environmental impact across its life cycle. This not only underscores Indowud NFC’s commitment to sustainability but also provides businesses and consumers with the assurance that their choice contributes to a greener future.
A legacy of innovation
The journey towards developing Indowud NFC wasn’t without its challenges. The challenges lay in developing a product that could match or surpass the qualities of traditional wood-based materials. Extensive research was required to ensure the product’s durability, strength, and usability in various climates and conditions. However, the result speaks for itself: a revolutionary material that is not only eco-friendly but also outperforms many traditional wood products.
By creating a product made entirely from agricultural husks, Indowud NFC plays a pivotal role in reducing deforestation. Each board of Indowud NFC produced means less demand for tropical wood and fewer trees cut down. This shift away from wood-based products supports the global fight against deforestation and helps preserve biodiversity in forests worldwide.
Moreover, Indowud NFC’s manufacturing process is designed to have a minimal environmental footprint. By reusing agricultural waste, the company reduces the amount of waste going to landfills and contributes to a circular economy. This not only conserves natural resources but also promotes sustainability in the agricultural and building industries.
Indowud NFC’s range of products is perfectly suited for the growing trend towards green construction. From homeowners to large-scale builders, there is increasing demand for building materials that contribute to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Indowud NFC fits seamlessly into this movement, offering a material that is safe, durable, and sustainable.
The products’ wide range of applications – from exterior cladding to interior furnishings – allows builders, designers, and architects to incorporate eco-friendly materials without compromising on quality or aesthetics. The company’s commitment to green innovation aligns with global efforts to create energy-efficient, environmentally conscious buildings.
The vision of a sustainable brand
At the heart of Indowud NFC is a mission to become the world’s leading producer of agri-based NFC products. Under the leadership of Mr. Bengani, the company envisions a future where sustainable building materials are the norm, not the exception. By aligning with the “Make in India” initiative, Indowud NFC is also contributing to India’s broader goal of becoming a hub for sustainable manufacturing and innovation.
The company’s passion for quality is evident in its manufacturing processes and customer service. Indowud NFC’s dedication to surpassing customer expectations, both in terms of product performance and accessibility to promoters, ensures that the brand is trusted by homeowners, builders, and contractors alike. This trust is built on a foundation of transparency and excellence, with Mr. Bengani himself personally involved in ensuring customer satisfaction.
Indowud NFC is more than just an eco-friendly alternative to wood; it represents a future where sustainability and innovation go hand in hand. By offering a product that reduces deforestation, reuses agricultural waste, and contributes to green construction, Indowud NFC is leading the charge towards a more sustainable world. Whether for homes, offices, or large-scale construction projects, the company’s natural fibre composite boards are the ideal choice for those who want to build responsibly.
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