New competition will seek to decarbonise the concrete and cement industry

A new global competition will seek to find innovative solutions to help to decarbonise the cement and concrete industry. 

Concrete is responsible for 8% of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, meaning if it was a country it would be the 6th largest emitter.

In a bid to find alternative solutions, the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) has launched a new open competition that calls on start-ups to pitch solutions and ideas.

The challenge areas include carbon capture technologies, calcination technologies – for heating materials during the concrete manufacturing process – carbon use in the construction supply chain and improved recycling of concrete.

Winners will enter a 12-month programme with access to expertise and investment.

GCCA has highlighted that decarbonising the concrete and cement industry is vital, cement is currently a vital resource used to provide safe homes and building infrastructure. Population growth and urbanisation will likely mean a greater requirement for critical infrastructure to support resilient communities around the world as well as the global shift to clean and renewable energy such as wind and hydropower.

Dinah McLeod, chief executive of GCCA said: ‘Concrete is the most widely used, material on the planet, after water.

‘Our members have committed to drive down the CO2 footprint of the industry’s operations and products and to deliver on our ambition of carbon-neutral concrete by 2050.

‘However, this ambitious goal will require significant and complex changes in how we manufacture, use and recycle concrete. Innovation will be crucial at every stage, from new cement and concrete chemistries to kiln technologies, clinker production, and carbon capture. This Open Challenge will help ensure we are bringing the creativity of the best minds from outside the industry to tackle the climate emergency.’

In related news, a cross-party group of MPs has called for the Green Homes Grant to be replaced with a new and improved energy efficiency scheme in the upcoming Spending Review.

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