C<scp>ARBON</scp> D<scp>IOXIDE</scp> E<scp>MISSIONS FROM THE</scp> G<scp>LOBAL</scp> C<scp>EMENT</scp> I<scp>NDUSTRY</scp>

TLDR

The cement industry accounts for about 5 % of global anthropogenic CO₂ emissions, mainly from limestone calcination, fuel combustion, and power generation, yet most available data only capture process emissions. The paper reviews total CO₂ emissions from cement production, covering both process and energy‑related sources, and discusses mitigation options. The authors outline mitigation strategies such as energy efficiency improvements, new processes, low‑carbon fuels, waste fuel use, additive application, alternative cements, and CO₂ removal from flue gases. In 1994, cement production emitted 307 MtC of carbon (160 MtC from process and 147 MtC from energy use); the top 10 producers accounted for 63 % of global emissions, and the average intensity was 222 kg C per ton of cement.

Abstract

▪ Abstract The cement industry contributes about 5% to global anthropogenic CO 2 emissions, making the cement industry an important sector for CO 2 -emission mitigation strategies. CO 2 is emitted from the calcination process of limestone, from combustion of fuels in the kiln, as well as from power generation. In this paper, we review the total CO 2 emissions from cement making, including process and energy-related emissions. Currently, most available data only includes the process emissions. We also discuss CO 2 emission mitigation options for the cement industry. Estimated total carbon emissions from cement production in 1994 were 307 million metric tons of carbon (MtC), 160 MtC from process carbon emissions, and 147 MtC from energy use. Overall, the top 10 cement-producing countries in 1994 accounted for 63% of global carbon emissions from cement production. The average intensity of carbon dioxide emissions from total global cement production is 222 kg of C/t of cement. Emission mitigation options include energy efficiency improvement, new processes, a shift to low carbon fuels, application of waste fuels, increased use of additives in cement making, and, eventually, alternative cements and CO 2 removal from flue gases in clinker kilns.