TED: A concrete idea to reduce carbon emissions | Karen Scrivener

Concrete is the second most used substance on Earth, contributing to 8% of man-made CO2 emissions. While essential for infrastructure, its production, particularly cement, is a major source of emissions. Innovations like LC3, which combines limestone, calcined clay, and cement, offer a solution with up to 40% lower emissions. LC3 can be produced using existing equipment and is being adopted globally, promising significant CO2 reductions and aiding in climate change mitigation.

What is the primary reason concrete has a significant environmental impact?

• It is used in large volumes globally.

• It is the most used material on Earth.

• It is more energy-intensive than steel.

• It has high CO2 emissions per ton.

What is the main source of CO2 emissions in the production of Portland cement?

• Heating limestone and clay to high temperatures.

• The breakdown of limestone into calcium oxide and CO2.

• The use of fossil fuels in the production process.

• Transportation of raw materials.

What is LC3 primarily composed of?

• Limestone, calcined clay, and cement.

• Iron, steel, and bricks.

• Recycled concrete and glass.

• Sand, gravel, and water.

Why is Portland cement so widely used globally?

• It has the highest strength among all building materials.

• It is made from abundant materials and can be produced almost anywhere.

• It is the cheapest material available.

• It requires the least amount of energy to produce.

What is the potential annual CO2 reduction if LC3 is widely adopted?

• 100 million tons

• 200 million tons

• 300 million tons

• 400 million tons