Globally, the cement industry produces about 5% of man-made CO₂ emissions. This breaks down to:

• Clinker production: 50%
• Burning fuel: 40%
• Electricity use and transportation: 10%

Reducing CO₂ emissions from cement production is a key focus of the CSI’s work. It has ensured that CO₂ emissions from CSI members are monitored and measured accurately, and then reported transparently. Each reporting CSI company has set individual intensity reduction targets for CO₂ emissions.

CSI members have achieved substantial reductions in specific CO₂ emissions, via:

• Alternative fuels (e.g. biomass);
• Raw materials as partial substitutes;
• Modern “dry-process” technologies.

A crucial part of the CSI’s climate protection efforts is to engage with emerging economies. These developing nations are where the bulk of future growth in global cement production will take place. This is a challenge that CSI members are devoting significant time and resources toward.

It is, nonetheless, essential to recognize that emerging economies have a fundamental right and duty to pursue economic development and poverty relief. Cement, as the main component of concrete, is needed for a wide range of construction projects, including housing and public works. It is a key material for any country’s economic and social development.