CO2e values for concrete
As part of the Concrete Industry Sustainable Construction Strategy our commitment is to provide the most transparent life cycle assessment data which is compliant with the codes and standards. This is reflected in the recent update by the cement sector of Factsheet 18, Embodied CO2e of UK cement, additions and cementitious material. This replaces the previous version which was published in 2015.
The embodied CO2e figure for CEM I in the updated information shows a 5.8% reduction in emissions compared to the 2015 information.
The current information maintains the cradle to gate boundaries so does not currently include any benefit (in terms of CO2 reduction) from the recarbonation of the cement during the lifecycle of concrete or any emissions from transport to the customer. All of the reduction shown from the previous version is a result of action taken by UK cement producers to reduce the embodied CO2e of cement. No offsetting has been used towards this reduction.
In producing this updated information the principles of all the relevant codes and standards have been considered and where technically possible have been included in the current methodology. Despite the challenging economic conditions, the factsheet shows that the cement sector has continued its programme of emission improvements.
For an Introduction to Factsheet 18, watch a short webinar by Dr Diana Casey, Director, Energy and Climate Change, MPA