Concrete is a man-made material that is a constant presence in our lives, not only because it is in our roads, pavements, and buildings but also because it contributes to the greenhouse gases that are harming our planet’s ozone layer.
The likely impact
It is expected that by 2060, 12% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions will emanate from the built environment. The cement in concrete is the primary contributor.
Why concrete is so damaging to the environment
Concrete is made up of cement, aggregates – such as sand and gravel – and water. Cement is manufactured by subjecting clay, sand, and ground limestone to extreme temperatures in a kiln, causing them to clinker. This clinker is ground into the fine grey powder we know as cement.
The kiln used in this process is run on fossil fuels, with the combustion of these fuels being a major contributor to emissions. Secondly, chemical reactions occur in limestone when it is subjected to extreme temperatures, which also emits harmful emissions. Together, these two factors pose a major environmental hazard.
How concrete can be made more environmentally friendly
Using byproducts from the building industry, such as waste biomass, uncalcified limestone, fly ash, and slag, can reduce emissions and promote a circular economy. By diverting these products from landfill sites and instead reusing them to manufacture concrete, significant ecological gains can be achieved.
Concrete Cheltenham
Cheltenham is a town that is committed to enhancing its green credentials, intending to achieve net zero by 2030. To this end, companies Cheltenham that supply concrete, such as https://www.monstermixconcrete.co.uk/concrete-cheltenham/, are embracing sustainability measures by seeking out green alternatives to traditional products, recycling and reusing byproducts, and delivering to exact customer requirements to minimise wastage.
In conclusion, concrete has a way to go to become truly green; however, by pursuing a long-term goal of increased sustainability and always looking for ways to improve processes and minimise wastage, a circular economy will be achieved in which concrete can continue to deliver immense value but with a lower environmental toll.
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