GCCA Unveils Partnerships to Accelerate Low Carbon Concrete Development
The Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA), an industry membership body, has announced new collaborations between cement manufacturers and tech startups aimed at developing low-carbon concrete solutions.
Canadian-based EnviCore, Queens Carbon and Chement from the USA, and NeoCrete from New Zealand were shortlisted last year as part of the GCCA's Innovandi Open Challenge Programme. These startups have now established partnerships with at least five GCCA member companies and leading manufacturers who will support and evaluate their technologies.
These partnerships could revolutionise the concrete manufacturing process and significantly reduce its carbon emissions. The four startups will receive unparalleled access to industry plants, laboratories, key networks, and the expertise and infrastructure of leading manufacturers to fast-track the development of their technologies. Furthermore, each startup will present their technologies and advancements during a demo day on the 6th of June in Bangkok, Thailand, as part of the GCCA’s CEO and Leaders Conference.
Concrete is the most widely used man-made material globally, essential for constructing homes, roads, tunnels, and bridges. However, its widespread use contributes to approximately 7% of global CO2 emissions. The development of innovative materials and technologies is a critical component of the GCCA’s 2050 Net Zero Concrete Roadmap.
Claude Loréa, the GCCA’s Cement, Innovation and ESG Director Cement Director, said the four startups have impressed us at every stage of the process. “Developing low carbon concrete is a challenge, as we will need something both scalable and ultimately affordable. Innovation is the key, and it’s great to see the startups agreeing partnerships with manufacturers. The GCCA and our member companies really look forward to working closely with each startup to take their ideas to the next stage.
Meanwhile, the GCCA has also announced that a record 29 startups, from nearly 100 applicants, have all been shortlisted for Open Challenge 3, which will focus on the further development of carbon capture, use and storage (CCUS) technology. The development of CCUS is expected to account for around 36% of the industry’s emission reductions, in line the GCCA’s 2050 Net Zero Concrete Roadmap. They will all now be invited to pitch their ideas to GCCA members later this month.
