VIEWPOINT
CEMENT GOES DIGITAL Garry Gregory, packed products director at Tarmac
AMIDST A CONSTRUCTION sector seeking out more sustainable and efficient ways to operate, the cement industry is undergoing a digital transformation with merchants reaping the benefits. At Tarmac we are at the forefront of this change, leveraging cutting-edge digital solutions and automation to continually improve its cement supply chain. This is not just resulting in enhanced efficiency and reliability but also contributing significantly to reducing the industry’s environmental footprint. The cement industry has long been under scrutiny for its carbon emissions. While much of the focus has been on the production process itself, industry leaders like Tarmac recognise that true sustainability requires a holistic approach. This means looking beyond just the manufacturing stage and optimising every link in the supply chain.
Embracing digital technologies and automation can pay dividends towards reaching sustainability goals. For example, by digitising processes that were once manual and paper-based, it is possible to not only streamline operations but also significantly reduce the carbon footprints of building products. This brings several benefits for merchants.
impact. This involves actively introducing alternative fuels at our manufacturing sites to reduce reliance on fossil fuels during production. By the end of 2024, Tarmac aims to operate the largest electric HGV fleet in the UK construction sector, significantly reducing carbon emissions from transportation.
Implementing electronic payments One of the most impactful changes Tarmac has implemented is the rollout of electronic payments for customers. This seemingly simple switch has far-reaching consequences through the elimination of paper waste. By removing the need for physical invoices and receipts, Tarmac is reducing the carbon emissions associated with paper production and disposal.
Electronic payments also streamline the accounting process, reducing the need for manual data entry and therefore minimising errors. Faster, more efficient
payments mean better cash flow for our customers and often leads to improved project timelines. Perhaps even more impactful is the implementation of electronic proof of delivery (EPOD) systems. This digital solution is transforming the way cement is delivered and tracked. With EPOD, drivers can complete deliveries to merchants more efficiently, reducing the time spent on site and the number of trips required. Together with customers, we can track deliveries in real-time, improving planning and reducing wasted time and resources. Like electronic payments, EPOD eliminates the need for paper delivery notes, further reducing waste and simplifying record-keeping. The wealth of data generated by EPOD systems allows Tarmac to continually optimise delivery routes and schedules, leading to even greater efficiency gains over time.
Multifaceted approach While going paperless is a significant step, Tarmac’s commitment to sustainability extends far beyond digital solutions. We are taking a multifaceted approach to reducing our environmental
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Of course, the product is important too, which is why we are committed to developing more sustainable cement products, including plans to move all ready- to-use Blue Circle products from CEM I to CEM II over the next few months, which will deliver up to a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions.
Benefits for merchants The digital transformation of our supply chain offers numerous benefits for builders and merchants. Real-time tracking and more efficient deliveries mean fewer delays and more predictable project timelines.
Reduced administrative overheads and more efficient operations also have the potential to lead to cost savings that can be passed on to customers. Working with a supplier committed to reducing its carbon footprint helps builders and merchants meet their own sustainability goals and appeal to environmentally conscious customers.
Digital documentation makes it easier to maintain accurate records for regulatory compliance and project management, while access to real-time data allows for more accurate forecasting and inventory management.
The move towards true sustainability in construction is a long and challenging road, but we’re already making significant progress through working with our merchant partners. BMJ
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net October 2024
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