Why are cement emissions difficult to avoid?

Cement is one of the key materials of modern construction, but its production remains difficult to decarbonise. While renewable energy can help reduce emissions linked to industrial energy use, it cannot fully address emissions that are generated directly by the production process itself.

A large share of cement-related CO₂ emissions comes from the production of clinker, the main component of conventional Portland cement. During this process, limestone is heated at high temperatures, triggering a chemical reaction that releases CO₂. These process-inherent emissions cannot be avoided simply by switching to cleaner energy sources.

This challenge is central to the work of the Carbon4Minerals project. The project explores new low-carbon pathways that combine CO₂ capture, CO₂ reuse, low-carbon cement alternatives and the circular use of secondary raw materials. By using industrial CO₂ and mineral residues as valuable inputs, Carbon4Minerals aims to support the production of low-carbon building material intermediates and construction products.

With eight industrial pilots across Europe, the project demonstrates technologies covering CO₂ capture, cement innovation, carbonation curing and sustainable construction materials. These pilots are designed to validate technical, environmental and economic feasibility across the value chain, from industrial flue gases to final construction products.

By addressing process emissions and material circularity together, Carbon4Minerals contributes to Europe’s transition towards a more sustainable, low-carbon and resource-efficient built environment.