The reports here represent part of the work by major cement companies to explore how the cement industry as a whole can evolve to assume a proper place in a sustainable future.

The study findings include a variety of recommendations for the industry and its stakeholders for improvements to cement production efficiency, emissions control, health and safety, communications and a number of other issues. Undertaking this type of open, self-critical effort carried risks. The participating companies believe that the long-term benefits of an independent review of the cement industry's status and future opportunities justify those risks.

The intent of the study was to share information that will help any cement company - regardless of its size, location, or current state of progress - work constructively toward a sustainable future. The pursuit of a more sustainable cement industry examined a number of technical, managerial, and operational issues in depth.

Thirteen different substudies were completed as part of this research, under the direction of the Battelle Memorial Institute. In addition, several other documents were developed to address specific issues, or to aid in implementation of the findings. Two documents were completed to integrate the findings and recommendations from these many separate substudies.

This work was funded primarily by a group of ten cement companies - designated for this collaboration as the Working Group Cement (WGC) - and by more than 25 external sponsors who provided both financial and intellectual support. By choice, the study boundaries were limited to activities primarily associated with cement production.

Downstream activities, such as cement distribution, concrete production, and concrete products, were addressed only in a limited way. Battelle conducted this study as an independent research effort, drawing upon the knowledge and expertise of a large number of organizations and individuals both inside and outside the cement industry. The cement industry provided a large number of case studies to share practical experience.

Battelle accepted the information in these case studies and in public information sources used. The WGC companies provided supporting information and advice to assure that the report would be credible with industry audiences. To assure objectivity, a number of additional steps were taken.

• A series of six dialogues were held with stakeholder groups around the world. Notes from these meetings are available on this project web site.
• The World Business Council for Sustainable Development participated in all meetings and monitored all communications between Battelle and the WGC.
• An Assurance Group, consisting of distinguished independent experts, reviewed both the quality and objectivity of the study findings. Significant changes were made as a result of their suggestions. Notes from all Assurance Group meetings are posted on the project website.
• External experts reviewed advanced drafts of technical substudy reports.

The study examined the cement industry on a global basis, considering potential future activities over the next 20 years. Of course, regional and local implementation of the study recommendations will vary both by company and by the need to tailor solutions to fit the differing customs, cultures, economic and technical development of the many locations where they operate.