Context
India’s cement industry poses a major challenge to its net-zero emissions target by 2070, as cement production releases substantial carbon dioxide through limestone calcination and fossil-fuel combustion. Decarbonising the sector requires cleaner technologies and alternative construction materials.
Explanation
- Cement is a binding material used in construction, while concrete is a mixture of cement, sand, aggregates and water.
- Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is primarily manufactured using limestone (calcium carbonate) and clay.
- During calcination, limestone is heated to produce calcium oxide (quicklime), releasing carbon dioxide: CaCO₃ → CaO + CO₂.
- Cement production generates process emissions from calcination and energy-related emissions from burning fuels to achieve temperatures of approximately 1,450°C.
- The cement sector contributes approximately 7–8% of global CO₂ emissions.
- Decarbonisation strategies include renewable energy, alternative fuels, clinker substitution, energy efficiency and Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS).
- Low-carbon alternatives include limestone calcined clay cement (LC3), geopolymer cement and traditional lime-based mortars.
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Cement Decarbonisation: Net-Zero Policy and Climate Goals