Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Low-Carbon Technologies’ Impact on Highway Emissions: Cement and Steel Sectors

 


Highway construction is a major source of carbon emissions due to the heavy use of cement and steel. As countries work toward climate targets and net-zero goals, low-carbon technologies in these two sectors are playing an increasingly important role in reducing emissions from road infrastructure projects.

Cement production is one of the largest industrial contributors to carbon dioxide emissions, mainly because of the energy-intensive process of producing clinker. To address this, manufacturers are introducing low-carbon alternatives such as blended cements, supplementary cementitious materials, and carbon-capture technologies. These solutions reduce emissions while maintaining the strength and durability required for highways.

The steel sector is also undergoing a transition. Traditional steelmaking relies on coal-based blast furnaces, which generate large amounts of greenhouse gases. Newer methods, including electric arc furnaces, recycled steel usage, and hydrogen-based steel production, significantly lower emissions. These technologies are increasingly being used for highway bridges, reinforcements, and safety barriers.

The combined use of low-carbon cement and steel can reduce the overall carbon footprint of highway projects across their entire lifecycle from material production to construction and long-term maintenance. Longer-lasting materials also mean fewer repairs, resulting in additional emission reductions over time.

Governments and infrastructure agencies worldwide are encouraging the adoption of low-carbon materials through green procurement policies and sustainability standards. As investment in sustainable transportation grows, low-carbon cement and steel are expected to become standard materials for future highway development.

The shift toward cleaner construction technologies represents a crucial step in reducing transportation-related emissions and building climate-resilient infrastructure for the future.

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Theme: Popular Engineer Awards for a Connected Future

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