Cemex and Ellen MacArthur Foundation Champion Circular Economy in Construction
Cemex, a global leader in the construction materials industry, has announced a pivotal partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, signalling a significant stride towards embedding circular economy principles into the built environment.
This collaboration is poised to redefine sustainable practices within the sector, focusing on reducing waste, extending product lifecycles, and promoting the use of alternative materials.
Embracing Circularity in Construction
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation, renowned for its dedication to promoting the circular economy, has a mission to address some of the most pressing global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, waste, and pollution.
By collaborating with various sectors, including public and private entities, the Foundation seeks to build capacity, foster innovation, and develop solutions that align with the principles of circularity.
Circular Economy Principles
- Eliminate waste and pollution
- Circulate products and materials at their highest value
- Regenerate natural systems
These principles are increasingly seen as essential in transitioning to a more sustainable and resilient economy, particularly within the construction industry, which is responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions.
Cemex’s Commitment to Sustainability
Cemex has long been a pioneer in sustainable construction practices. With a focus on innovation and research, the company is dedicated to achieving carbon neutrality. The integration of circular economy principles into their operations through the Regenera business is a testament to their commitment.
Fernando A. González, CEO of Cemex, highlighted the importance of this partnership: “Since 2023, with the launch of our Regenera business, we have strengthened our focus on circularity as an essential component of our strategy. Through Regenera, we are providing circularity solutions to extend the life cycle of products and reduce the use of virgin materials. The Partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation presents a tremendous opportunity to further drive Cemex’s leadership in the transition of the built environment towards a circular economy.”
The Role of Regenera in Driving Circularity
Regenera, Cemex’s initiative launched in 2023, focuses on enhancing the circular economy within the cement supply chain. In 2023 alone, Regenera successfully recovered over 9 million tonnes of construction and demolition waste (CDEW), marking a 5% increase from the previous year.
This waste is repurposed as raw materials for aggregates in concrete production, significantly reducing the environmental impact and fostering a more sustainable construction value chain.
Addressing Global Challenges Through Circular Economy
The built environment is a critical sector in the global effort to combat climate change. According to the United Nations, the buildings and construction sector accounted for approximately 37% of global CO2 emissions in 2021. Adopting circular economy practices could potentially reduce these emissions by 38% by 2050, offering a substantial contribution towards global climate targets.
Joe Murphy, Executive of the Business Network at the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, remarked: “The built environment sector has a huge role to play in the transition to a circular economy, and Cemex have shown their intent to be a key player by joining our Network. As a leader in the construction industry, we look forward to supporting their circular economy journey through this long-term collaboration and showcasing the potential of innovative circular practices within the building materials industry.”
Future in Action: Cemex’s Roadmap to Net-Zero
Cemex’s overarching sustainability program, Future in Action, aims to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. This ambitious initiative encompasses climate action, circularity, and natural resource management.
The partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation is a crucial component of this strategy, enabling Cemex to leverage the Foundation’s extensive network and expertise in driving forward their circular economy agenda.
Key Goals of Future in Action
- Achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050
- Enhance circular economy practices across operations
- Promote the use of alternative raw materials and fuels
- Reduce reliance on virgin materials
The Impact of Circular Economy on Construction
The adoption of circular economy principles in construction not only reduces environmental impact but also offers economic benefits. By minimising waste and maximising the value of materials, the industry can achieve greater resource efficiency and cost savings.
Additionally, the circular economy fosters innovation, leading to the development of new technologies and business models that can further enhance sustainability.
Benefits of Circular Economy in Construction
- Reduces carbon emissions and environmental impact
- Promotes resource efficiency and cost savings
- Fosters innovation and new business models
- Enhances resilience to supply chain disruptions
A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future
The partnership between Cemex and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation exemplifies the collaborative effort required to transition to a circular economy. By working together, companies, policymakers, and other stakeholders can develop and implement solutions that address the complex challenges facing the built environment.
A Sustainable and Circular Construction Industry
Cemex’s alliance with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a sustainable and circular construction industry.
Through innovative practices, strategic partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, Cemex is leading the way in transforming the built environment for future generations.
