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Efficient Industry Processes - Cement
Recognising the urgency of identifying technology to reduce the CO2 intensity of cement production, the IEA has worked together with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) Cement Sustainability Initiative (CSI) to develop a technology roadmap for cement. This is currently the only industry-specific roadmap; others focus on specific technologies. This joint effort shows willingness to build on progress already made, as well as the industry’s understanding that further progress lies ahead.
CO2 emissions from cement production currently represent about 5% of anthropogenic global CO2 emissions. The cement roadmap outlines a possible transition path for the industry to make continued contributions towards a halving of global CO2 emissions by 2050. As part of this contribution, this roadmap estimates that the cement industry could reduce their emissions 18% from current levels by 2050. A reduction of global emissions does not imply a linear reduction by the same percentage in all industries. This roadmap should be understood as a deep analysis of potentials and challenges in one industry.
The vision for such reductions is ambitious, yet the changes required must be practical, realistic and achievable. This roadmap is a first step. It is only attainable with a supportive policy framework, and appropriate financial resources invested over the long term. The roadmap outlines these policies, estimates financial requirements, and describes technical changes, along with recommendations to support research and development (R&D) and future investment decision-making.
Key Points
- Cement is a key material. Demand reduction / substitution is not an option
- Options today best available technology (BAT), alternative fuels and clinker substitutes) are not sufficient to reduce future emissions in the sector
- New technology is needed – CCS and new cement types
- Urgent action is needed to develop and demonstration carbon capture technology for the cement sector
- Step increase in RD&D needed, a very long term solution is required
- Deep emission cuts are costly (USD 50-100/t CO2) and capital intensive
- Policy should address economic implications
- Cement will become twice as expensive – a challenge and an opportunity
Details, recommendations, and metrics are contained in the Cement Sector Roadmap Report that will be published in Autumn 2009.
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