Canada and UAE’s Pioneering Initiative at COP28
DUBAI – CLIMATE – At COP28 in Dubai, François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, together with His Excellency Omar Ahmed Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary of the UAE’s Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, announced the Cement & Concrete Breakthrough initiative. This pivotal move underscores Canada’s commitment to spearheading net-zero solutions in the cement and concrete industry by 2050, in partnership with nations, businesses, and global entities.
Objectives of the Cement & Concrete Breakthrough Initiative
Co-led by Canada and the UAE, this initiative will facilitate international sharing of best practices and policies for decarbonizing the cement and concrete sector. It aims to position low-carbon cement products as the preferred global choice, drawing on Canada’s expertise as recognized in its Roadmap to Net-Zero Carbon Concrete by 2050.
Global Collaboration and Sharing Best Practices
The initiative invites countries to exchange insights on decarbonization strategies. It is a platform for global partners to contribute towards making clean cement the mainstream choice in construction and infrastructure development.
Canada’s Leading Role in Green Cement and Concrete Industry
Minister François-Philippe Champagne highlighted Canada’s pivotal role in clean technology innovation. “Canada is a global leader in research and innovation, committed to establishing a competitive green cement and concrete industry. This initiative marks a significant stride towards net-zero carbon cement and concrete by 2050, creating green jobs and a sustainable future,” Champagne stated.
International Support and Expansion of the Breakthrough Agenda
Endorsed by countries including Germany, Japan, Ireland, and the United Kingdom, this initiative extends the Breakthrough Agenda, launched at COP26. It now covers sectors responsible for over 60% of global emissions, including buildings, road transport, steel, hydrogen, agriculture, and now cement and concrete.
Canada’s Comprehensive Approach to Emissions Reduction
The initiative is aligned with Canada’s Emissions Reductions Plan. This plan is for a 40% reduction in emissions from 2005 levels by 2030. The Roadmap to Net-Zero Carbon Concrete plays a crucial role in this broader strategy.
Investments and Policies to Propel Clean Technology in Canada
Canada’s Budgets 2022 and 2023 introduced measures to enhance low-carbon technology commercialization. These include a $15 billion investment for the Canada Growth Fund, focusing on decarbonization projects and supporting the growth of clean technology businesses.
The Environmental and Economic Impact of Cement Production
In 2019, the cement industry in Canada was valued at over $1.3 billion. However, cement production is a significant source of global industrial CO2 emissions, accounting for 26% in 2019. This initiative aims to significantly reduce these emissions while promoting economic growth.
Concluding Statements
This initiative is a landmark step in Canada’s and the UAE’s collaborative efforts to address the environmental challenges posed by the cement and concrete sector. By pooling resources and expertise, the two nations aim to lead the way in achieving a cleaner, more sustainable future.
