The Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) has announced a first-of-its-kind global rating system intended to enable cement and concrete to be identified based on their carbon footprints. The Low Carbon Ratings (LCR) for Cement and Concrete is designed to help customers prioritise sustainability when selecting construction materials.
Using a scale of AA to G it is inspired by well-known schemes such as the EU’s Energy Performance Certificates and US Energy Home Rating System. It incorporates a simple visual graphic that will indicate a product’s rating, providing consistency and comparability.
Thomas Guillot, CEO of the GCCA, said: “As global demand for sustainable construction grows, the need for greater transparency around the carbon footprint of construction materials is more critical than ever. Our Low Carbon Ratings system supports more sustainable procurement practices and will empower the entire value chain to accelerate decarbonisation."
He added: “With this rating system in place, governments, policymakers and the private sector can now prioritise lower carbon cement and concrete in the procurement process which will in turn further stimulate the industry’s focus on decarbonising these essential building materials."
