The US cement industry is prioritizing decarbonization efforts and addressing challenges related to emissions reductions, permitting processes, and more stringent emission standards. Industry leaders are meeting with Members of Congress and their staff as part of the Portland Cement Association's (PCA) Annual Cement Fly-in. The industry's main objectives include the use of alternative fuels, the development of lower-carbon cements, and the implementation of carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) technologies to achieve carbon neutrality. The PCA is urging Congress to collaborate on reasonable policies and standards to support these efforts. The Roadmap to Carbon Neutrality provides recommendations for reaching carbon neutrality by 2050, including increased research and investment in CCUS technologies, streamlined regulation and permitting practices, and the promotion of low-carbon alternative cements. The cement industry plays a significant role in the US economy, employing nearly 600,000 people and contributing over $130 billion annually [0b18be13] [87631385].
Despite the challenges, the US cement industry remains optimistic about its outlook. The industry is focused on decreasing emissions, exploring alternative power sources, and implementing technology to improve productivity. The Infrastructure and Jobs Act is providing funding for public works projects, which will drive infrastructure spending and create opportunities for the cement industry. Additionally, the industry is moving towards sustainability and resilience, with a focus on supplying resilient and sustainable construction materials for infrastructure projects [2295c4b4] [dd9660c5].