What Makes Sustainable Concrete Environmentally Friendly?

As a member of The LGW Group, we’re invested in providing sustainable concrete solutions for your project. This includes small DIY jobs and large commercial developments. You can learn more about the different types of concrete we provide on our types of concrete mixes page.

The reason our coalition of leading concreting and construction experts in Wales and the South of England is looking to transition to more sustainable concrete solutions is simple:

Portland cement production is already responsible for over 8% of global carbon emissions. This is mainly due to the energy-intensive production process.

However, sustainable concrete offers an effective solution to this challenge. Using recycled materials like fly ash, slag, and silica fume can replace part of the cement. According to the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), this partial replacement of clinker or cement with fly ash and granulated blast furnace slag lowers CO2 emissions.

Our team aim to provide green concrete options for all types of projects, whether residential or commercial. In this post, we’ll explore how sustainable concrete works, its benefits, and why it’s the ideal choice for any modern construction project.

1. Carbon Footprint Reduction

Sustainable concrete significantly reduces CO2 emissions, a critical issue in the construction industry. Traditional cement production is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions globally. In 2018, UK carbon dioxide emissions from concrete and cement were 7.3 million tonnes, approximately 1.5% of UK greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable concrete includes materials like fly ash, slag, and silica fume to replace part of the cement. This approach helps reduce carbon emissions in concrete production.

Yet, when you pick sustainable concrete, you help lessen the environmental impact of your project. Recycled materials reduce emissions and also preserve valuable natural resources. This supports a cleaner, greener world.

2. Waste Reduction & Recycling

Sustainable concrete uses recycled materials, like fly ash, slag, and crushed concrete. This helps keep waste out of landfills and also reduces the need for new materials. Recycled and secondary aggregates account for around 29 per cent of the total aggregate use in the UK. This plays an important role in the UK’s current circular economy, where resources are reused rather than discarded. The UK Concrete Circular Economy Framework promotes keeping concrete’s value during its entire life cycle.

Recycling concrete and using by-products lowers the environmental impact of construction. It reduces the need for raw materials and lessens landfill waste. Our team are already prioritising these sustainable practices in every batch of concrete we produce. We do this because we want to ensure that our work benefits both your project and the planet.

3. Durability & Long-Term Benefits

Using recycled aggregates and industrial by-products makes concrete stronger and more durable. MPA trials of low-carbon multi-component cements met BS 8500 standards and showed outstanding durability. This means structures last longer and require fewer repairs over time. In fact, Earth Friendly Concrete say they can reduce embodied CO2 by up to 70% while delivering superior durability. This means savings over time and less need for new materials. It also offers even more benefits for the environment.

The increased durability of sustainable concrete means:

• Fewer maintenance cycles
• Reduced resource consumption
• And far less waste

For projects like foundations, driveways, and commercial buildings, the answer is clear. Choosing sustainable concrete ensures your investment is eco-friendly and built to last.

Applications of Sustainable Concrete

Sustainable concrete is highly adaptable and works well for various construction projects. From homes to big commercial projects, its environmental benefits are apparent in many uses.

Residential Foundations & Driveways

Sustainable concrete gives homeowners a strong, lasting base for homes and driveways. It also helps lower environmental impact. Sustainable concrete is a wise choice for your project. It keeps things eco-friendly and lasts long, whether you’re building your dream home or paving a new driveway.

Commercial Buildings

Sustainable concrete is ideal for large-scale construction. It offers the strength and durability needed for offices, retail spaces, and industrial facilities. This material can withstand heavy traffic and daily wear. Also, its long-term benefits — like less maintenance and fewer repairs — mean lower costs and a smaller carbon footprint over time.

Pavements & Infrastructure

Sustainable concrete is also ideal for public infrastructure, including roads, pavements, and sidewalks. Its strength against wear and harsh weather makes it suitable for these uses. It offers a green solution for urban areas that need durable, eco-friendly materials.

Build a Greener Future with Sustainable Concrete

As eco-friendly construction grows, sustainable concrete is at the forefront. Using recycled materials and industrial by-products, like fly ash and slag, cuts carbon emissions. It also saves resources and helps a circular economy. It’s tough, long-lasting, and good for the planet. This makes it the best choice for both home use and large projects.

At Wright Readymix, we supply quality, sustainable concrete solutions. These help you build in a smarter, greener way. You can trust that our products offer both strength and longevity. Contact us today to see how our eco-friendly concrete can help your project. Whether it’s for a home or a business, we have the perfect solution for you.

Call 0117 958 2090 or contact us today for a free quote and a sustainable solution for your concrete needs.