Cemex, a global leader in construction materials, is making strides toward reducing its carbon footprint in the cement and concrete industries. With the goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, Cemex has implemented innovative methods, such as utilizing alternative fuels and pioneering carbon capture technologies, to decarbonize the construction sector. Here’s a closer look at Cemex’s decarbonization efforts and how other companies might contribute to a greener construction future.
What is decarbonization?
Decarbonization refers to reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions into the atmosphere, especially in industries that rely heavily on fossil fuels. In construction, CO₂ emissions arise primarily from the production and transportation of building materials, particularly cement, which is one of the largest single sources of industrial carbon emissions.
Decarbonizing construction involves adopting practices that minimize the carbon footprint associated with these activities, such as switching to renewable energy, improving material efficiency, and integrating innovative technologies to capture and store emissions.
How does decarbonization work?
Decarbonization in construction works by addressing CO₂ emissions at every step of the building process. This may involve reducing the carbon content of building materials, improving the energy efficiency of machinery, and adopting renewable energy sources.
Decarbonization can also include carbon capture and storage (CCS), which collects CO₂ emissions during production and stores them to prevent release into the atmosphere. Additionally, many companies are exploring the potential of carbon-negative materials that absorb more CO₂ over their lifespan than they emit.
The drive to decarbonize
Decarbonizing construction is crucial—the industry contributes roughly 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with cement production being one of the highest sources. As climate change concerns intensify, pressure is mounting on industries to reduce emissions and adopt sustainable practices.
Decarbonization is not only seen as a necessary step to mitigate environmental impact but also as a driver of innovation, pushing companies to find new ways to build sustainably while maintaining the quality and durability of their products. Governments, too, are tightening regulations on emissions, further encouraging the industry to shift toward greener practices.
How Cemex Ventures is decarbonizing construction
Cemex has laid out a detailed roadmap to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, validated by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). As part of its strategy, Cemex Ventures, the company’s innovation arm, focuses on low-carbon concrete, recycling materials, and exploring breakthrough technologies that can drastically reduce emissions.
One of Cemex’s flagship products, Vertua, is a line of low-carbon concrete that can cut CO₂ emissions by up to 70% compared to traditional concrete. Another approach includes using alternative fuels, such as waste-derived biofuels, to power cement kilns, further lowering emissions from fuel use. In addition, Cemex is heavily invested in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology, which captures CO₂ during cement production and repurposes it for other industrial applications or stores it permanently.
Cemex has partnered with Carbon Clean, a company specializing in CCS technology, to scale its emissions reduction efforts. This collaboration aims to deploy CCS technology at multiple cement plants globally, setting a precedent for carbon capture within the construction materials sector. Cemex also focuses on digital technologies to streamline supply chain processes and reduce emissions from material transport and logistics.
How companies can decarbonize construction
Successfully decarbonizing construction involves addressing emissions at every phase of a project. Here’s how companies can integrate more sustainable practices throughout design, supply chains, and construction itself.
Design phase
Decarbonization starts with thoughtful design, where architects and engineers can make a significant impact by prioritizing materials and techniques that have low carbon footprints. Selecting materials like low-carbon concrete or recycled steel reduces initial emissions. Additionally, designers can incorporate passive energy-saving strategies such as optimizing natural light and ventilation, which minimizes the building’s lifetime energy requirements.
Including renewable energy sources, like solar or wind power, in the design can also help offset emissions, contributing to the building’s long-term sustainability. Digital design tools now allow for the simulation of environmental impact, assisting teams to make data-informed choices that minimize carbon output.
Supply chain management
The construction supply chain can contribute substantially to a project’s carbon footprint, making efficient management essential. Sourcing materials from local suppliers reduces emissions from transportation, while partnering with suppliers with green practices, like using electric vehicles or low-emission manufacturing, can further cut emissions.
Digital tools, like blockchain and supply chain management software, offer real-time tracking to streamline processes and prevent excess shipments. Additionally, companies can look into sustainable packaging and bulk shipping to reduce waste and energy use. Circular supply chain models prioritize reusing and recycling materials and reduce the need for new resources, cutting carbon emissions significantly.
During the construction process
Emissions reduction can be achieved on-site by using eco-friendly machinery, such as electric or hybrid construction equipment, which releases less carbon than traditional diesel-fueled machines. Emissions can also be lowered by optimizing construction schedules, which prevents energy waste from idle machinery and equipment.
Sustainable construction practices, like prefabrication and modular construction, have become popular for their efficiency in both material use and energy savings. Building components off-site in controlled environments allows for more precision, reducing the likelihood of wasted materials. Additionally, modular construction can reduce project timelines, further lowering energy demands and reducing the total carbon impact of a build.
Bottom line
Decarbonization in construction is achievable but requires innovation, investment, and a solid commitment to sustainability. Cemex’s efforts highlight how technology and alternative practices can drive the industry toward net-zero emissions, setting a model for others to follow. With collaboration, creativity, and proactive measures, construction can contribute to a cleaner, greener planet.
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