CEMBUREAU welcomes focus on well designed EU innovation policy

CEMBUREAU welcomes the focus of a recent Institute for European Studies report on the need for a well designed EU innovation policy to support sectors like the cement industry in their transition to a low carbon economy. The cement sector has always been at the forefront of innovation, in relation to its manufacturing process, its products and business model.

As highlighted by the authors, one of the challenges faced by the sector is that the CO2 emitted during cement production is due to the chemical process in which limestone is calcinated into lime when producing clinker. These process emissions cannot be avoided. As a result, research is currently underway to identify ways in which this CO2 can be captured and either stored or reused. Here the report points to three potential technologies: post-combustion, oxy-combustion and a calcium looping cycle which are all currently explored by the sector.

The development of breakthrough technology poses technical and financial challenges. Therefore, a public-private partnership to create the right conditions for these investments is essential. CEMBUREAU shares the view presented in the IES study in favour of the creation of an innovation fund. Designed correctly and in cooperation with industry, it can help the sector invest in the technologies needed to transition to a low carbon technology.

CEMBUREAU welcomes the innovation paths set out in the study which reflect the thinking in the CEMBUREAU roadmap to 2050. CEMBUREAU is eager to engage with policymakers and discuss the technical potential and the proper regulatory and funding framework to ensure that the European cement sector stays in the lead on innovation. CEMBUREAU is pleased to see that the innovation pillar is given appropriate attention in the European climate change debate as it demonstrates that competitiveness of the industry is an essential prerequisite for its continued investment and strive for excellence.

Adapted from press release by Joseph Green

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/europe-cis/27052016/cembureau-welcomes-focus-eu-innovation-policy-185/