Paying the price for a Concrete Jungle

By Stanley Gibbs, SMAS Worksafe Assessor

Emissions from the cement industry contribute to global warming 3 or 4 times more than the aviation industry. By using renewable fuel sources during the production of cement as well as adding waste products gained from power stations to reduce the need for limestone, a company in India are slashing its carbon emissions by up to 40%.

The manufacturing of cement contributes up to 8% of the world’s total carbon emissions. Dalmia are aiming to use 100% renewable energy by 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2040.

The issues regarding carbon emissions and the cement industry show no signs of slowing down in the UK, with all major political parties pledging to increase housing in their manifestos. Regardless of how you will vote in the upcoming elections, the impact of cement on our global carbon emissions cannot be ignored.

The UK must explore climate-friendly ways to make cement such as those already in practice at Dalmia. Committing to building more housing comes at a price to our environment so exploring alternate methods for the manufacturing of cement and reducing our carbon footprint ensures that we are building for a more sustainable future.