World Cement Association - Decarbonisation and Industry Outlook

Cement might be one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise. Electricity can be produced sustainably with renewable energy, agriculture can focus on plant-based products while remaining animal products can be farmed regeneratively, transport can be electrified and sometimes downscaled (e.g. air travel), products can be reused and recycled, buildings can often use different materials and be more energy-efficient. But cement, representing around 5.3% to 8% of global emissions, is incredibly hard to decarbonise, as calcinating limestone represents 50-60% of emissions - making it one of the "costliest sector[s] to decarbonise across the whole economy".

As the IPCC stated in 2022, "deep reduction of cement process emissions will rely on already commercialised cementitious material substitution and the availability of CCS". And there are solutions available - aside from reducing demand for cement through efficient design. These include clinker substitution, alternative fuels and efficiency upgrades - with CCS reducing remaining emissions. In terms of clinker substitution, the most effective way to reduce emissions, the World Cement Association champions the development and adoption of alternatives, such as limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) and supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). These innovations can reduce the clinker factor by up to 40%.

The WCA is organising an Annual Conference on 19–21 April 2026 in Bangkok, placing a strong emphasis on decarbonisation pathways and gathering industry leaders in addressing the future of cement. This year’s conference agenda focuses on key themes such as low-carbon clinker technologies, and digital transformation in cement manufacturing, with the goal of providing an industry outlook and leading the way for decarbonisation.

The event itself is also reflective of sustainability-related best practice in the membership sector - as it not only features a Climate Action Award for companies who manage to reduce emissions for cement production and address barriers to decarbonisation, but also integrates decarbonisation and sustainability throughout other awards too, such as the Innovation and Model Plant awards, evaluating criteria such as energy efficiency and emissions.

For those interested in attending or contributing, the event offers not only strategic insights but also valuable networking opportunities for professionals shaping the future of sustainable construction.

Register here: WCA Annual Conference 2026 | World Cement Association on Glue Up