This article delves into the innovative methods employed by Envirocon to minimise the carbon footprint of its products, thereby contributing to a greener and more sustainable construction industry.
Introduction:
In an era where sustainable construction practices are paramount, the importance of low carbon concrete products cannot be overstated. Envirocon is a leader in construction sustainability, particularly in the production of ultra-low carbon precast concrete concrete systems.
Reducing Carbon Impact in Concrete:
The Basics
Reducing the carbon impact of concrete involves two primary methods: the utilisation of carbon offsets and the incorporation of industrial byproducts to replace conventional ingredients in the manufacturing process of ready mix concrete.
Low Carbon Cement Mixes and Blast Furnace Slag
Low carbon cement mixes often feature blast furnace slag as a cement replacement. This substitution effectively reduces the carbon intensity of the cement while maintaining the structural integrity of the final product.
The Role of Carbon Accounting
One of the pivotal aspects of understanding how low carbon cement achieves low carbon products lies in carbon accounting, or greenhouse gas accounting. This process quantifies the direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions associated with a business, its products, or services. International standards govern the calculation of emissions.
The Carbon Accounting Principle
Carbon accounting operates on the principle that new products made from virgin materials account for the full carbon cost of production. In other words, the emissions linked to the product's creation are quantified because if the product were never manufactured, those emissions would not exist.
Industrial Byproducts and Carbon Reduction
Envirocon's approach may not involve cement or aggregate replacements, but the fundamental principles align with those of low carbon concrete. When industrial byproducts are used in the manufacturing process, these byproducts typically possess a notably low carbon footprint. Consequently, the final product carries a considerably reduced carbon footprint.
To substantiate the environmental benefits of its products, Envirocon relies on independently produced and registered Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). These documents serve as an environmental "recipe book" for each product, offering transparent insights into their carbon impact.
Embracing Circular Economy Principles
Envirocon embraces the concept of circularity by diverting excess concrete from landfills and repurposing it into high-quality, low carbon precast concrete elements. These elements are meticulously designed for non-destructive dismantling and reuse, promoting sustainable resource utilization. To underscore their commitment to circularity, Envirocon provides a comprehensive buyback guarantee on their blocks, ensuring a second life for these eco-friendly products when they are no longer needed.
