Concrete NZ’s 2024 Sustainability Report shows the nation’s cement and concrete sector is ramping up decarbonisation efforts.
The industry has committed to a net-zero carbon target by 2050. The report documents steps taken to reduce emissions across production processes. Concrete NZ tracks these developments as part of its sustainability monitoring.
Concrete NZ Sets Targets
Concrete NZ’s sustainability and policy director, Tim Kleier, said the industry has set ambitious climate goals, including a 44% reduction in direct and electricity-related CO₂ emissions by 2030 from a 2020 baseline.
“Across the country, Concrete NZ’s members are modernising their operations, from upgrading batching infrastructure and optimising material inputs, to deploying electric vehicles and embracing digital technology for real-time quality control,” he said.
Sector Roadmap and Goals
The report confirms the sector’s pathway to achieving a 44% emissions reduction by 2030, with a longer-term objective of net zero by 2050. Concrete NZ says the industry continues to push forward on its roadmap despite economic headwinds and softer construction activity.
Progress in Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs)
One of the standout findings is the rapid uptake of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) such as slag and fly ash, which reduce reliance on traditional Portland cement.
“SCMs now account for 6.6% of all binders used in ready-mixed concrete, more than four times the 2020 baseline share,” Kleier said. “With SCM infrastructure now in place to support the 2030 Roadmap target, the sector is well on its way to delivering tangible emissions reductions.”
Expanded Data Coverage Enhances Industry Insights
The 2024 report reflects stronger industry engagement, drawing on contributions from producers representing around 80% of ready-mixed concrete volumes, along with precast, masonry, and reinforcing processors. Concrete NZ said this broader dataset provides a more reliable evidence base for government, specifiers, and the wider community.
Operational Efficiency and Sustainability Alignment
“The results confirm that sustainability and performance can go hand-in-hand, delivering lower-carbon outcomes without compromising durability, strength, or cost-efficiency,” Kleier said.
Roadmap to 2026
The industry is advancing its Transformation to a Low Carbon Concrete Industry project, due in early 2026. Building on its 2050 Net-Zero Carbon Roadmap, the project will identify practical actions and opportunities, drawing expertise from across the value chain.
Industry-Wide Collaboration Drives Momentum
Concrete NZ chief executive Rob Gaimster said the report demonstrates momentum across the sector.
“We are now tracking progress with more confidence than ever before, thanks to the commitment of our members. The breadth of data and innovation highlighted in this report demonstrates a real industry-wide determination to reduce emissions while continuing to deliver the durable, resilient concrete that New Zealand needs.”