The German Cement Works Association (VDZ) has introduced a new CO2 label called the 'Cement Carbon Class' (CCC) to promote the use of low-carbon cements. The label allows for easy identification and comparison of products based on their greenhouse gas emissions.
This initiative follows a 2024 stakeholder process organised by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), which established thresholds for climate-friendly cement products. VDZ President Christian Knell stated, “The definition alone does not create demand. That's why VDZ has introduced a voluntary CO2 label that makes the CO2 footprint of products on the market easily recognisable and comparable.” Knell also noted that the label can be used in public procurement and private tenders, supporting sustainability certifications and potential subsidies for low-emission construction projects.
The CCC categorises cements into classes based on CO2 emissions, with Class A representing cements with emissions between 100-200kg CO2/t, and ‘near zero’ cements emitting under 100kg CO2/t. The system was inspired by an International Energy Agency (IEA) model and developed collaboratively by industry, academic and business stakeholders.
VDZ Chief Executive Martin Schneider highlighted the importance of the initiative for advancing climate-neutral construction, stating, “This makes the new CCC label an important step towards promoting green lead markets, which are crucial for the transformation towards climate neutrality.”
Founded in 1877, VDZ has long been at the forefront of sustainable cement production, providing international research and expertise to support environmentally friendly practices across the cement and concrete value chain.
