The Americas

Geo-Green Crete^TM is to hit the small screen in a US television documentary about energy efficient homes.

Although recent economic news and activity may suggest a technical end to the 'Great Recession,' the conditions facing the construction industry are likely to remain weak for another year or more, causing a drag on cement consumption, according to the most recent economic forecast from the Portland Cement Association (PCA).

Working with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), US cement producers continue to improve their energy efficiency and make other environmental strides. In little more than a decade, the industry has reduced its energy intensity by 10%, as improvements made by proactive companies have transformed the industry’s energy performance.

FLSmidth has signed a contract with Chinese-owned Minera Chinalco Peru for equipment for its Toromocho copper mine.

Construction of the EURUS wind farm project was completed on 15 November 2009. The wind farm will supply approximately 25% of Cemex’s energy needs in its Mexican cement plants.

Peru’s second largest cement producer has revealed plans to invest some US$ 300 million to develop and phosphate mine and processing plant.

Erdene Resource Development Corp. has provided an update on its principal projects in conjunction with the release of its third quarter 2009 financial results.

Massey Energy Co. has completed the acquisition of metallurgical and steam coal reserves from now-bankrupt Appalachian Fuels, LLC and its affiliates.

The Vancouver Sun has named Polaris Minerals as the fourth fastest-growing company in British Colombia. The company, which has only been operating for two years, is surviving well, despite the downturn in the market this year.

The PCA, Salt River Materials Group and Habitat for Humanity have developed a concrete home that will bring considerable benefits to its future owners. Its sustainable design means it has achieved ‘Net-Zero’ energy designation.

A new player has emerged, claiming development of a cementitious material made from post-industrial waste and producing near-zero carbon emissions. Many such products have made the news recently, but will any or all gain precedence over OPC?

Headwaters Incorporated has announced its Q4 and fiscal year results ended 30 September 2009.

A recent report from the USGS reveals varied results for the US gypsum industry in July 2009.

Cemex has lowered expected cashflow figure for 2009 to US$ 2.9 billion, compared to US$ 3.2 billion predicted earlier this year.

The US Department of Energy has released the initial phase of funding for industrial carbon capture and storage projects. The successful projects include trials by Cemex, Air Products and Chemicals, ConocoPhillips, Praxair and Shell.