World governments are taking the lead in pursuing net zero, with more than 140 countries having stated their intentions of reaching net zero by the year 2050.

Efforts focus on government operations and changing the regulations by introducing carbon reduction goals into local building codes. Many companies in the private sector are also beginning goals to reach net zero.

The closer you get to achieving a truly net zero project, the more carefully you have to look at all the material inputs involved.

With concrete being responsible for around 8% of all man-made CO2 emissions, this is an area which more sustainable practices can be implemented.

Concrete producers are improving the sustainability by using by-product materials, such as fly ash, and slag, often in combination with portland limestone cement.

Carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) will be critical in the longer-term approach in decarbonising cement manufacturing.

CCUS helps owners and designers reduce their reliance on carbon offsets by using cement that has a substantial reduction of embodied carbon.

Achieving net zero along with other sustainability goals, requires a diverse approach from all stakeholders in the industry.

This includes designers, suppliers, contractors, and owners. An all-inclusive perspective that looks at the entire life-cycle of cement and the by-products that can be used, through reuse and recycling, is what will ultimately enable the goal of net zero by 2050 to be met.