Sustainable Construction Becomes Key to Competitiveness in the Steel Industry

The growing complexity of infrastructure needs is driving the steel industry to adopt sustainable construction solutions. This approach is seen as a key factor in boosting competitiveness while addressing environmental challenges and disaster risks. The issue emerged at the National Seminar and Steel Construction Supply Chain Exhibition organised by the Indonesia Society of Steel Construction (ISSC) recently. In this forum, industry players emphasised the importance of material and technology innovations in supporting long-term development. Director of Technology & Business Development at Krakatau Posco, Alhadis Syamsuddin, stated that modern construction needs demand materials with higher specifications. “The company has produced high-grade steel for construction needs, weathering steel, offshore structures, energy facilities, and heavy equipment,” said Alhadis. He explained that the industry’s competitiveness is not only determined by products but also by integrated manufacturing capabilities. Krakatau Posco has developed a production system based on technology that enables precise and consistent quality control. “Krakatau Posco is also supported by rolling mill technology capable of strictly controlling thickness tolerances according to project needs,” Alhadis added. From the material quality perspective, strict control of chemical composition is carried out to ensure every product meets specifications. The company has also adopted artificial intelligence-based inspection technology through the Surface Defect Detector (SDD) facility to accurately detect surface defects. “We will continue to deliver high-quality steel solutions that not only meet global standards but also address specific construction needs in Indonesia, including environmental challenges and earthquake risks,” he said. In product development, the company focuses on three main areas. First, high-strength structural steel for heavy construction such as bridges and high-rise buildings. Second, earthquake-resistant steel with high ductility and optimal toughness characteristics. Third, weather-resistant steel to support sustainable infrastructure development. “Technological innovation is the key for the company in supporting resilient and sustainable infrastructure development,” said Alhadis. Looking ahead, the transformation towards sustainable construction is expected to become the new standard in the steel industry. Integration of technology, material efficiency, and resilience to environmental risks will be the main factors in maintaining the national industry’s competitiveness in the global market.