Concrete targets carbon neutral future

Forty of the world’s leading cement and concrete companies have unveiled a joint industry ‘2050 Climate Ambition’ that contains a roadmap for how the concrete industry can become carbon neutral by 2050.

Launched by the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) on behalf of its member companies, the statement is the first time the companies have come together globally to state a collective ambition for a carbon neutral future. Concrete is the world’s most used man-made product.

The statement identifies the essential levers that will be required to achieving carbon neutral concrete, including: reducing and eliminating energy related emissions, reducing process emissions through new technologies and deployment of carbon capture, more efficient use of concrete, reuse and recycling of concrete and buildings, and harnessing concrete’s ability to absorb and store carbon from the atmosphere.

Dinah McLeod, GCCA chief executive said, “As we face the challenges for future generations and begin global economic recovery, concrete will be even more critical to building the sustainable world of tomorrow. That’s why we are making this commitment today, in order that our crucial industry aligns with global targets, including the Paris Agreement.

“Concrete has a vital role to play in addressing the need for sustainable communities and prosperity. It is a key ingredient of infrastructure, homes, clean water and community resilience as our climate changes. Crucially, it will also help facilitate the transition to clean/green energy. We believe this journey will be challenging but are fully committed to working together with our members, partners and stakeholders across the industry and supply chain to achieve this ambition.”

According to the GCCA, the concrete and cement industry has implemented a 19% reduction in CO₂ emissions per tonne of cementitious material along with a ninefold increase in alternative fuel use since 1990.