Cement

Reducing emissions in the cement industry

Cement is the second-most-used material globally after water, valued for its strength, versatility, and affordability. However, its production has a significant environmental impact. 

In October 2022, the Climate Bonds Standard Board approved the Cement Criteria - the first global standards for certifying sustainable investments in the cement sector. 

The environmental challenge 

Cement production accounts for 25% of industrial CO2 emissions, making it a major contributor to man-made greenhouse gases. In 2020, global production reached 4.3 billion tones. While cement has a relatively low carbon intensity per unit, its massive scale drives high emissions. 

Key contributors to these emissions include: 

• Process emissions: Two-thirds of emissions come from the chemical decarbonation of limestone.
• Thermal emissions: High process heat requirements add to the carbon footprint. 

Replacing cement at scale is difficult due to its low cost and widespread use. Although full decarbonisation is not yet possible, advanced technologies and practices could reduce emissions by 80–85%. 

What do the Cement Criteria cover? 

The Cement Criteria focus on the most ambitious emissions reduction pathways, including: 

• Investing in innovative technologies, alternative fuels, and clinker substitution.
• Improving cement quality to indirectly reduce emissions.
• Designing new facilities with state-of-the-art technologies.
• Retrofitting existing plants to lower emissions without locking in outdated assets. 

These Criteria guide investments toward cleaner production methods, ensuring a balance between sustainability and cement’s essential role in infrastructure and construction. 

Learn more

Contact us to discover how these Criteria can support your sustainability goals.