Improving the sustainability of concrete

The built environment is a major contributor to CO2 emissions accounting for approximately 50% of global emissions. To reduce impact, all aspects of construction need to be investigated. Concrete is utilized in infrastructure globally and contributes to industry emissions. Cement, a primary constituent of concrete, is manufactured worldwide and production continues to increase, especially in developing countries. The process is energy intensive and uses both raw materials and nonrenewable fuels, with large amounts of CO2 emissions emitted during production. To increase the sustainability of concrete, a variety of innovations need to be adopted, from the raw materials used, methods of manufacturing, design and construction, to the end of life phase. The presented work briefly explores various methods aimed at reducing the impact of concrete and increasing the sustainability of the material and the built environment. Drastic changes are needed if we are to meet our 2050 emissions targets.