For example, a circular economy creates low-risk and more predictable cash flows. The reliance on raw material markets, which are often volatile, will be reduced by reusing materials and components, stabilising costs. Furthermore, circular practices such as modular construction and prefabrication can shorten project timelines and reduce labour costs, allowing for even more financial predictability. How we build better Materials and their formulations are a vital part of this discussion. The performance of cement and concrete cannot be sacrificed, but we also know the CO footprint of these materials need to be reduced to meet emissions and embodied carbon targets. The key material for innovative formulations today is calcined


clay: natural clay that has been heated to make it reactive with cement. The calcined clay production process is much less CO intensive than clinker production, generating less than a quarter of the emissions. Biochar’s breakthrough Biochar has become a breakout material within the industry. Using pyrolysis – the chemical decomposition of organic materials using heat in the absence of oxygen – we can transform organic waste into a charcoal-like material called biochar and permanently sequester carbon that would otherwise have been released as CO. Biochar acts as a carbon sink and each kilogram produced


result in increased project numbers, and grow the demand for green materials. Rising awareness among customers and procurement teams of sustainability and its importance will mean businesses that demonstrate green expertise and a tangible commitment to sustainability-based values and offerings will reap the rewards. This shift towards sustainability is not easy. Everyone, from stakeholders to customers, is on a steep learning curve. However, there are opportunities once you conquer it. A circular construction economy In a circular construction economy, buildings are designed with durability, adaptability and disassembly in mind. This means material selection is based on its potential to be refurbished, reused, recycled or repurposed at the end of a building’s life as well as performance. The end goal is circularity, a reduced dependency on finite materials and lower carbon emissions. Innovative building materials companies, of which Holcim is leading the charge - are implementing initiatives with these principles in mind. For example, our ECOCycle products contain 10-100% construction demolition materials (CDM) created via efficient distribution, processing, grinding and recycling of CDM into new building solutions, with no compromise on performance. It is a transformational approach to materials. But one not without a competitive advantage and business edge.


prevents the release of up to 3 kilograms of CO. Then, biochar can be added to low-carbon formulations of building materials, such as cement, mortar and concrete, to further reduce their CO footprint, with no compromise on performance. Holcim trialled this new carbon-negative building material earlier in the year to great success, proving radically environmentally progressive innovations, can be practical and scalable. The crossroads Construction is at a crossroads. One path sees growth and sustainability treated as joint ventures, leading to businesses that can be resilient, innovative and cost-effective. The other leads to gaps, delays and stagnation as the industry inevitably moves towards net zero. While there has been an understandable fatigue due to constant regulatory pressures and industry volatility, sustainability as a priority, practice and goal is here to stay. Businesses that adapt now rather than later, will be the ones to capitalise on the financial potential circular thinking and material innovation will bring. But first, we must see sustainability and growth as one in the same, not a mutual exclusive tightrope.


JX200


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