Is net-zero feasible: Systematic review of cement and concrete decarbonization technologies

Cement and concrete are hard-to-abate industrial sectors for decarbonization due to growing demand driven by rapid urbanization, population growth, and the considerable need for the rehabilitation of aging infrastructure. Cement production accounts for 8 % of global anthropogenic CO2 emissions. If considered a country, the cement and concrete industry would rank the world's third largest carbon emitter just after China and the USA. Since over 120 countries committed to net-zero emissions by 2050, whether net-zero cement and concrete would be achievable needs to be examined. This systematic review scrutinizes pertinent emerging cement and concrete carbon saving technologies and evaluates their short- and long-term potential, benefits, and limitations. Critical analysis reveals that most emerging technologies are at an early stage of development, while rigorous life cycle assessment is necessary to appraise their carbon-saving promise. The findings suggest that adopting circular economy tactics through the utilization of various sources of by-products, unwavering stakeholder commitment, and breakthrough technologies are key to attaining net-zero aspirations and United Nations sustainability goals. A multi-faceted approach coupling materials innovations, alternative fuels, and efficiencies across various sectors is needed to reach the net-zero goal. The review identifies promising technologies, knowledge gaps, the need for future research, and recommendations for best practices towards the net-zero goal.