HEIDELBERG MATERIALS' CO2 roadmap On the way to carbon neutrality

Abstract

AbstractAt its Capital Markets Day in May 2022 Heidelberg Materials published the commitment to reduce specific CO2 emissions by almost 50 % to 400 kg CO2 per ton of cementitious material by 2030, the most ambitious target in the sector. This article provides an overview of some key elements of the roadmap established to achieve this ambition and to pave the way to achieve carbon neutrality of concrete. Three central themes will be highlighted in this article: Carbon capture and storage projects are an indispensable cornerstone to ultimately produce CO2 free cement The reduction of clinker in cement and concrete and the development and utilization of new or alternative cementitious materials are highlighted as major levers to reduce CO2 The possibility to create fully circular concrete by advanced recycling technologies and to use recycled concrete paste for CO2 mineralization are illustratedCombined with several other initiatives ‐ energy efficiency, alternative fuels and raw materials, more efficient use of concrete, to name a few ‐ substantial progress can be made on the way to carbon neutrality of concrete.