Key Findings
- Global Impact: The cement industry currently accounts for approximately 7% of global CO2 emissions and is the third-largest industrial energy consumer.
- Vision: The roadmap envisions a transition pathway that aims to reduce direct CO2 emissions by 24% below current levels by 2050, contributing to a 2°C limit on global temperature increase by 2100.
- Technological Levers:
- Energy Efficiency: Improvements in energy efficiency can lead to significant reductions in CO2 emissions.
- Alternative Fuels: Switching to alternative fuels can reduce the carbon intensity of cement production.
- Clinker-to-Cement Ratio: Reducing the clinker content in cement can lower emissions.
- Emerging Technologies: Innovations like carbon capture and utilization, and new binding materials, offer potential for further emission reductions.
Key Actions to 2030
- Energy Efficiency: Enhance existing energy efficiency measures to reduce energy consumption and associated emissions.
- Alternative Fuels: Increase the use of alternative fuels in cement kilns to replace fossil fuels.
- Clinker-to-Cement Ratio: Implement strategies to reduce the proportion of clinker in cement production.
- Innovative Technologies: Invest in research and development of new technologies and materials to further reduce emissions.
Roadmap Objectives
- Sustainability: Achieve sustainable development through reduced CO2 emissions while maintaining strong financial performance.
- Regulatory Support: Develop supportive regulatory frameworks and policies to facilitate the transition.
- Investment: Secure necessary financial investments to implement the recommended actions.
Scope
- Global Collaboration: The roadmap recognizes the importance of international collaboration and engagement with major emerging economies to address shared energy and environmental concerns.
- Life Cycle Consideration: Focus on reducing CO2 emissions across the entire lifecycle of cement, concrete, and the built environment.
Technical Challenges
- Research and Development: Address technical challenges in developing and demonstrating new technologies and materials.
- Policy Priorities: Highlight the need for specific policy priorities and regulatory recommendations to support the transition.
Conclusion
The roadmap aims to inspire international and national policymakers to support evidence-based decisions and regulations that facilitate the sustainable transition of the cement industry. It underscores the importance of a supportive regulatory framework, effective investments, and international collaboration to achieve significant CO2 emission reductions.
