Sustainability Initiatives that can be Taken up by Cement Companies

Regulatory pressures and stakeholders' expectations are increasing regarding health, safety and environmental performance. There are signs that cement products may evolve from commodities to a greater variety of differentiated products serving changing customer needs. Thus, maintaining the 'license to operate' as an industry depends on being able to earn and keep the support and trust of local people by treating their environment and communities with respect. Recent developments in sustainability relate to indicators of sustainable development and data for energy use, resource use, emissions and waste. These are key factors for understanding and controlling impacts such as consumption of scarce resources, polluting emissions, climate change and waste. The major role that construction can play in increasing sustainability is highlighted in the present study with a perspective on the impacts associated with cement. The study also includes an initial framework for assessing and improving the sustainability of cement industries as well as long-term roles that cement and concrete can play in improving the same at local, national and world levels. Better quality of life can be supported by creating global visibility.