Green Cement Technologies by 2035: Avoiding 422 Megatonnes of Extra CO2
The cement industry plays a crucial role in modern life, but it’s no secret that its main ingredient, cement, contributes to 7% of global CO2 emissions. As our population grows and urbanization continues, reducing construction isn’t a feasible way to reduce carbon emissions. Luckily, there’s hope on the horizon. A recent report by IDTechEx highlights that new cement decarbonization technologies could help avoid an extra 422 million tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next decade.
One exciting advancement is in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies. While historically expensive, many large-scale projects are expected to come online in the cement sector in the next ten years. Europe is leading the charge, thanks to mechanisms like the Innovation Fund and the Emissions Trading System. Companies like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Aker Carbon Capture are developing technologies to capture carbon at cement plants, while others are exploring new ways to lower costs.
Another key player in decarbonizing the cement industry is the use of supplementary cementitious materials. By repurposing waste materials like coal ash and granulated blast furnace slag, the industry can lower its carbon footprint while reducing costs. As these materials become more prevalent, they could change the global average composition of cement over the next decade.
In addition to these advancements, renewable electric industrial heat generation is also crucial for reducing emissions in industries like cement and steel. While traditionally, high temperatures have required fossil fuels, newer technologies such as hydrogen and renewable electricity are gaining traction. Start-ups like Cambridge Electric Cement and Coolbrook are paving the way in electrified cement production.
As the cement industry aims for net zero emissions by 2050, there’s a clear need for further investment in innovative solutions. It’s an exciting time for the industry, with new materials, processes, and chemistries on the horizon. IDTechEx’s report “Decarbonization of Cement 2025-2035” provides a comprehensive outlook on the future of the cement industry, analyzing the technological, economic, and regulatory landscape that will shape the industry over the next decade.
If you’re eager to learn more about the potential for decarbonizing the cement industry, check out the full report at www.IDTechEx.com/Cement. And don’t miss the upcoming free webinar hosted by Eve Pope, a Technology Analyst at IDTechEx, as she explores the technologies that could help cement reach net zero emissions.
