SBTi launched the first science-based framework to decarbonize the cement industry

The Science Based Targets (SBTi) initiative has published the first framework for companies in the cement sector and other potential users, such as construction companies, to set science-based short- and long-term targets in line with 1.5°C.

The cement industry is responsible for 7% of_CO2 emissions worldwide. To get started with the Net Zero emissions scenario by 2050, the sector must reduce its emissions by 3% per year by 2030.

This paper provides the scientific basis for sector-specific 1.5°C decarbonisation pathways. It includes detailed guidance on how to set targets and address processes that are specific to the cement and concrete sector, greenhouse gas accounting criteria and recommendations, as well as examples of how different types of companies can use the tools and guidance to present a target. for validation. This sector is the second largest industrial emitter of CO2, accounting for around 7% of_CO2 emissions globally.

To date, more than 30 cement companies have committed or set a science-based target, of which one-third are committed to net zero.

“To prevent the climate crisis from worsening and negative impacts from becoming more frequent with each fraction of warming, urgent private sector action is required. For the first time, cement companies have a clear plan on how to align their decarbonization strategies with climate science taking into account the unique context of the industry. The transformation towards low-carbon technologies is critical to the long-term viability of the industry. We encourage all cement production companies to set science-based targets and play their part in building a climate-safe economy,” said Alberto Carrillo Pineda, co-founder and CTO of SBTi.

Concrete action in the decarbonization of the cement industry

About 4.4 Gt of cement is produced each year. For every ton of cement that is manufactured, approximately 0.6 tons of CO2 are emitted. About two-thirds of emissions come from feedstocks (limestone) in Clinker production, with the remaining third coming from burning fuels and using electricity.

Through this guide, the SBTi describes how much and how quickly a company within the cement value chain needs to reduce its emissions to limit global warming to 1.5°C. It addresses sector-specific methodological issues and facilitates the development of targets and the validation process for companies, clarifying the definitions to be used for target setting (e.g. cement and cementitious products, gross emissions), scope (e.g. the role of emissions beyond the control of the company, e.g. from goods purchased or distribution, also known as scope 3 emissions) and how to include emissions from concrete production in targets.

The SBTi Cement Guide includes manufacturers of Clinker, cement and concrete; companies in the value chain that do not produce their own Clinker or cement; other potential users such as construction companies; and producers of new cement binders and substitutes.

This framework has also been designed for those companies that buy cement, whose emissions will be within their scope 3 inventory. Instead of using generic scope 3 methods, they may use the cement route to set targets for their cement procurement.

Source: ComunicarSe