Carbon dioxide reduction potential in the global cement industry by 2050
A new paper, which is a contribution to the UNEP series on Eco-Efficient Cements, examines the role of material-based solutions to reducing CO2 emissions from cement production considering factors that could influence implementation.
Global urbanisation has led to an increase in demand for cement and cement-based materials. With its growth in consumption, the associated CO2 emissions from its production are raising concern. However, the role of mitigation strategies in a global context that account for regional material availability and degree of market adoption have yet to be considered.
Introduction of new cement alternatives and improved efficiency of cement use
The recently published work shows that the 2 °C scenario targets for 2050 can be met through increased use of calcined clay and engineered filler with dispersants. The introduction of new Portland clinker-based cement alternatives, use of alkali-activated materials, and improvement of efficiency of cement use could further contribute to reduction goals. There are currently-available technologies for reduction that could be rapidly implemented.
The study is published in: Cement and Concrete Research Volume 114, December 2018, Pages 115-124.
