ForConstructionPros.com

Judging from recent legislative actions and proposals, one could conclude that cement and concrete products rank among the greatest evils on the planet in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and global warming. Some may not believe global warming is proven or that climate change is man-made, but the increased regulations and restrictions affecting the cement and concrete industries cannot be ignored.

Rather than bemoan these changes, whether climatic or regulatory, we can be proactive. Let's make our case for the environmentally friendly aspects of concrete construction while we educate others on the facts of GHG emissions from cement and concrete production.

Yes, the manufacture of cement, the critical component of concrete, produces significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). But concrete is also green. We must acknowledge both, but put our best foot forward!

The structural benefits of concrete are widely known. What many people don't know is that concrete also:

• reduces motorists' fuel consumption when it replaces asphalt pavement.
• saves energy by reducing commercial and residential electricity consumption by reducing energy demand because of its thermal mass in buildings.
• reduces ambient temperatures through urban "heat island" mitigation when lighter colored surfaces that reflect more sunlight replace dark-colored surfaces.
• accommodates sustainable development practices by incorporating recycled concrete, blast-furnace slag, fly ash and silica fume and other materials destined for a landfill.
• improves drainage and restores water to aquifers with the use of pervious concrete paving.

Detractors to cement production argue that while concrete has its advantages, cement manufacturing requires a lot of energy, often in the form of coal and other fossil fuels. Also, the process emits 0.9 lb. of CO2 for every pound of cement produced, according to the Portland Cement Association.