Experts Push for 40% Reduction in Cement Production Costs and Carbon Emissions

Stakeholders Raise Concerns Over Rising Cement Prices and Environmental Impact

Industry stakeholders have voiced growing concerns about the increasing cost of cement and its significant contribution to climate change. The rising prices are reportedly hindering construction projects amid Nigeria’s mass housing deficit, prompting calls for sustainable alternatives.

Limestone Calcined Clay Cement Proposed as Sustainable Solution

At a recent stakeholders’ meeting organized by the Society of Cement and Concrete Researchers in Nigeria (SCCRN) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG), expert Lauret Grimmeissen advocated for adopting limestone calcined clay cement technology.

“There is a new product that reduces emissions by 40% without compromising cement quality. Nigeria, as Africa’s largest producer, adopting this technology would be significant for climate change mitigation,” Grimmeissen stated.

Clinker Production Identified as Major CO2 Contributor

Mohammed Lawal, Chairman of the Cement Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (CMAN), highlighted that cement production emits substantial CO2, primarily from clinker production. Emmanuel Ilaboya, representing CMAN, explained:

“The CO2 emissions come from clinker production, not cement itself. The calcination process of limestone at high temperatures releases carbon that combines with oxygen to form CO2.”

Impact on Housing Affordability

Prof. Kolawole Olonode of UNILAG’s Civil and Environmental Engineering Department linked cement prices to housing affordability:

“Reducing cement costs would directly lower construction expenses, making housing more accessible to middle and low-income earners.”

The stakeholders emphasized that adopting the new cement technology could simultaneously address environmental concerns and make construction more affordable in Nigeria’s growing economy.

Source: Daily Trust