Decarbonizing cement is challenging for two main reasons: a multifaceted emissions profile and an undynamic industry. Emissions are multifaceted, requiring multiple solutions for decarbonization, with the majority of emissions (60%) from producing cement coming from the fundamental chemical reaction of producing clinker, in which carbon dioxide is released from the limestone. The industry is dominated by a few major cement producers, plant lifetimes are long, and profit margins are low, leading to risk aversity and low R&D investments. Further downstream in the value chain, architects, engineers, contractors, and owners are also relatively reluctant to adopt new building materials and methods, given the high stakes involved in safety, reliability, financial risk, and regulatory compliance. Transitioning from today’s to tomorrow’s market thus requires both innovative technologies and smart, incentivizing policies.
In terms of technologies, a number of innovative solutions are already
known and exist, but need to be refined and scaled. This policy brief outlines Future Cleantech Architects’ five policy recommendations to ensure European cement production aligns with Europe’s 2050 carbon neutrality objectives.
