Analysis and Comparison of CO₂ Emission Mitigation Measures by the Cement Industry in Ibero-American Countries

According to Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA), the cement industry is responsible for about 7–8% of all anthropogenic CO₂ emissions released into the atmosphere as reported by GCCA et al. (CCUS in the Indian Cement Industry: A Review of CO₂ Hubs and Storage Facilities, 2024). Clinker production results in high energy costs and the release of CO₂ due to the calcination or decarbonation of its main raw material, limestone. In addition, energy is consumed to heat and maintain the temperature inside the rotary kiln, involving another significant CO₂ release. This work presents a review of mitigation processes in seven Ibero-American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Portugal and Spain) that guide the cement industry toward carbon-neutral production by 2030 and 2050. The mitigation parameters are analysed based on the global roadmap published by GCCA (Global Cement and Concrete Association), FICEM (Inter-American Cement Federation) and CEMBUREAU (European Cement Association), as well as the national roadmaps. The six main parameters identified across the countries’ roadmaps were the reduction of total direct CO₂ emissions in cement production, thermal efficiency, electrical efficiency, the clinker factor, the use of alternative fuels and (re)carbonation. The adoption of biomass as an alternative fuel and the reduction of the clinker factor through the use of SCM were identified as the main strategies for lowering CO₂ emissions from Portland cement production in all seven countries analysed. Despite current efforts, CO₂ mitigation in the cement industry has limits. Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 will require substantial investment in CO₂ capture, storage and utilization technologies.