"The Cement Industry Talk: Emissions "




It is said that on a global level, the cement manufacturing industry is responsible for about
5% of the global CO2 emissions. When compared to other industries its a huge figure to be
concerned about. This industry produces various types of cement. And cement, as we know,
is an important component of concrete. Concrete is the basic foundation of all the structures
like buildings, residential spaces, roads, bridges, highways, etc. 
Infrastructural developments are common in every country. Concrete is the base component
for any type of construction. That’s the reason why it is the most consumed product after water!
It is said that on average, each individual uses 3 tons of concrete per year.
Cement, as a product is irreplaceable in terms of construction, at least as of now. Even if we
find an alternative, it has to be diverse and effective like cement. It is also a major contributor to
the global economy. Production of cement is growing at a rate of 2.5 per cent annually and its
production is expected to reach about 3.7-4.4 billion tons by 2050.
The Cement Production Process
In the construction eco-system, the term concrete and cement are often used synonymously.
But, concrete is the end product of cement. The main constituent of cement is limestone.
During the manufacturing of cement, limestone and other materials are heated in a kiln at
about 1400 degree Celcius. The mixture is then grounded thoroughly to form a substance called
clinker. The clinker is then mixed with gypsum to finally form cement.
This whole process consumes a lot of energy in each stage and the emissions are also high
because of the extreme heat. On an average, production of a ton of cement requires 4.7 million
BTU(British Thermal Unit) of energy, and this is equivalent to 400 pounds of coal with the capability
to produce over a ton of CO2. In order to reduce the effect of greenhouse gases, taking a look at
the cement industry is very important.
Mitigation of CO2 emissions
Fossil fuels are burnt to heat the kiln, this causes indirect CO2 emissions in addition to that produced
by the cement manufacturing process. This “extra” emission can be brought down by including
natural gas, biomass fuels, and waste-derived fuels for heating the kiln. It is estimated that if done
so, the overall carbon emissions can be decreased by 18-24 per cent by 2050.
Another step that can be taken is to modify the traditional processes in order to reduce fuel consumption
and emissions. By upgrading machinery involved in the cement manufacturing process and
removing the wet and inefficient kilns, emissions can easily be controlled. 
Indian cement industry has successfully initiated sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing
practices. Organisations like CMA India, for instance, has taken all the cement and construction
companies under its umbrella and is working together with them to solve CO2 emission challenges
and environmental issues. 
Cement Manufacturing Association takes the initiative of putting forward problems faced by the
Indian Cement industry, before the government. 
To know more:  https://www.cmaindia.org/


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