Upgrading Low-Carbon Pathways for Cement Production in the United States

The emissions intensity for cement production in the United States is ~20-30% higher than in the European Union, India, and China. When comparing the United States to these other countries in terms of the green cement technologies implemented, it becomes apparent that there is considerable scope domestically to reduce emissions from the cement sector. In cement production, over 50% of the CO₂ emissions are caused by inherent material processes due to calcination. The composition of cement and its different formulations using industrial wastes and natural materials have a major role to play in lowering emissions. We will discuss material options and readily available technology solutions for decarbonizing cement production which can be incentivized by policy changes in the near term. By adopting key technological advances in clinker substitution and energy efficiency, we estimate an annual carbon mitigation potential of up to 38% for United States' cement production. Starting from this analysis, we will discuss how a range of climate policy levers such as standards, procurement policies, and sectoral agreements, can be implemented to upgrade low-carbon cement technologies and bring the United States cement sector on par with the rest of the world in terms of sustainability.