Understanding Net Zero and the Cement Industry's Race

What is Net Zero?

The escalation of global temperatures is closely linked to the accumulation of greenhouse gases over time, meaning that if greenhouse gas emissions continue to surpass a certain threshold, the planet will continue to grow hotter. Leading scientists worldwide have unanimously agreed that in order to mitigate the unpredictable effects of climate change, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions must be reduced by 45% 2010 levels by 2030 and achieve a net emissions level of zero (Net Zero) by 2050.

Net Zero refers to a state where the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere does not exceed the amount of greenhouse gases removed it. Simply put, Net Zero means that the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the environment is no greater than the amount of greenhouse gases eliminated the atmosphere.

The Concept of Net Zero is of utmost significance as it represents the cessation of global temperature rise. At the United Nations' COP26 climate change conference in 2021, a series of crucial targets were outlined in the battle against climate change, including achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and maintaining the Earth's temperature increase below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Future scenarios, such as those in 2070, would limit global warming to under 2 degrees Celsius. Today, concerns about climate change and the adverse effects of industrial activities are driving the global development of the 'Net Zero' concept. The cement industry, contributing 7% to global greenhouse gas emissions, is at the forefront of the Net Zero race in Vietnam.

The Cement Industry and the Net Zero Race for Sustainable Development

Emission Reduction Commitments

Cement production is energy-intensive and contributes 7% of carbon emissions. In Vietnam, during a period of robust growth and international integration, the increasing demand for construction and economic development is propelling the expansion of the cement industry.

Coupled with opportunities are the substantial challenges faced by the cement industry due to its emissions, particularly during the process of heating limestone and aggregate to produce the final product. Government commitments mandating energy-intensive industries, including cement, to formulate emission reduction plans 2026 have intensified the Net Zero race in this sector. Seeking solutions to minimize emissions in the cement industry is not only an environmental imperative but also a vital task to promote the sustainability of both the industry and the nation."

Learning the Global Landscape and Technological Solutions

The global Net Zero race within the cement industry has been underway for quite some time. Industry giants such as Lafarge Holcim, HeidelbergCement, and Anhui Conch have been actively reducing emissions in cement production through the adoption of green energy, alternative fuels, utilization of technology, and emissions monitoring systems for decades.

Therefore, the Vietnamese cement industry cannot afford to lag behind in implementing Net Zero. The drive to reduce emissions is not merely an environmental action, as it profoundly influences product branding in the market and the perception of international consumers. Vietnam's involvement in the Net Zero race has garnered attention various stakeholders, ranging the government and businesses to the scientific community and the general populace.

The government has committed to advancing greenhouse gas reduction efforts in national development plans and is formulating supportive policies to achieve the Net Zero goals within the cement industry. Cement enterprises are also researching and implementing novel measures to minimize emissions, such as integrating new technologies, installing excess heat recovery systems, adopting alternative fuel sources in place of coal, and increasing the use of additives in cement production.

...to Comprehensive Solutions towards Net Zero 2050

Implementing the Net Zero goals within the cement industry is no simple task and currently faces numerous challenges. One of the key challenges is sourcing suitable alternative materials that are readily available in Vietnam while ensuring both technical and economic efficiency. Reliance on traditional materials has persisted for decades, and transitioning necessitates significant investment in research and development.

In addition to material concerns, technological advancements and changes are essential but come with considerations of whether the investment costs can be recovered, especially as the Vietnamese cement industry grapples with dual challenges of rising fuel prices (coal, electricity, etc.) and increased transportation costs alongside a sharply decreased market demand.

Furthermore, achieving the Net Zero target, with zero net emissions, demands close collaboration and commitment all stakeholders. This includes government bodies, businesses, the scientific community, non-governmental organizations, and consumers. Presently, the government is facilitating an enabling environment to ensure that businesses possess the capability and motivation to implement greenhouse gas reduction measures. Simultaneously, Vietnamese cement enterprises have undertaken proactive measures to enter this race. They have significantly shifted their perception towards energy efficiency and sustainable development. All parties recognize the imperative need for emission reduction to progress toward Net Zero carbon.

The Net Zero race within the Vietnamese cement industry is not just about mitigating the industry's adverse environmental impacts; it also serves as an opportunity to foster innovation and sustainable development. The collective efforts of all stakeholders will contribute to the global endeavor to mitigate climate change and create a greener future for the next generations.

For more information on carbon emission reduction solutions in the Cement industry, please contact:

Mining and Building Materials Technology Solutions Center

Mr. Quynh: 0866059659 / Ms. Thuy: 0332268626