Sustainability at Heart of Concrete’s Strengths

Across its whole life cycle, concrete is a remarkably sustainable construction material from the sourcing of materials, the design and operation of buildings and to end-of-life re-use or recycling.

Concrete is locally manufactured which supports the local industry, community, and employment. It is highly efficient with minimal onsite waste which reduces the impact of transportation.

Concrete is 100 per cent recyclable and uses recycled materials in manufacture. It naturally absorbs carbon from the atmosphere throughout its life, with global studies demonstrating up to a third of the original CO2 emissions re-absorbed.

Concrete is increasingly manufactured using materials that would otherwise go to waste, such as fly ash from electricity generation and blast furnace slag from steel making, all helping to reduce carbon emissions and waste.

Recycled aggregates are also used where feasible, reducing the demand for natural resources.

Due to its excellent thermal mass, Concrete buildings provide more stable and comfortable internal temperatures resulting in reduced energy costs and emissions over the life of your structure.

Concrete’s natural durability, aesthetic, thermal and acoustic properties can reduce the need for additional finishing such as floor coverings, wall linings, insulation, and fire protection.  This saves on construction time and cost.

Concrete buildings can be easily remodelled and re-purposed for alternative uses resulting in a reduced environmental impact and cost compared to full demolition and rebuilding.

When used in city environments, the heat reflecting properties of concrete paving and external walls can reduce the urban heat island effect, providing cooler urban environments. 

Concrete is a sustainable material that is good to live with for its entire life.

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