As an energy-intensive company we are making a substantial effort to minimize our CO2 emissions
Emissions reduction targets
By 2030, Cementir will reduce its direct (Scope 1) and indirect (Scope 2) emissions by 25% compared to 2020 levels. These targets, validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), are consistent with the objective of maintaining climate warming "well below 2°C".
We will reduce our direct emissions to less than 500 kg of CO₂ per tonne of grey cement (compared to 684 kg in 2021), while for white cement, which is a special product with niche applications and markets (0.5% of the total world cement production), the plan is to reduce emissions to 800 kg CO₂ per tonne (compared to 919 kg in 2021).
These objectives are part of the reduction roadmap defined in our sustainability strategy for which green investments and specific targets have also been defined in the Industrial Plan and in our short-term incentive system.
Reducing CO₂ emissions is a Group priority, but we cannot achieve a zero-emissions future by ourselves. It is essential to involve the entire value chain in the path towards energy transition, to achieve the desired results and respond to institutions and investors requests. Climate issues and related regulations on CO₂ emissions are also affecting suppliers, especially in Europe.
"Our industry is radically changing and we want to be at the forefront."
Our active involvement
We are actively involved in industrial policy discussions at a global and national level, which touch on issues related to climate change, among others.
Cementir also participates in the Climate Change questionnaire of CDP, the non-profit organization among the most accredited internationally for the evaluation of transparency in the dissemination of information by companies on the subject of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. In December 2021 we obtained a "A-" rating for "climate change".
Our CO₂ emissions
Our activities produce different types of emissions into the atmosphere, mainly carbon dioxide, dust and nitrogen and sulfur oxides.
Cement production is an energy-intensive process which releases both direct and indirect CO₂ emissions into the atmosphere.
Our current carbon footprint
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SCOPE 1
Includes all direct emissions related to the calcination of limestone which, when heated in the kiln at high temperatures, releases CO₂.
68% of total emissions
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SCOPE 2
Includes indirect emissions related to electricity purchased for the Group's needs, for example in cement grinding mills
6% of total emissions
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SCOPE 3
Includes other emissions that are not under the direct control of the company, but which are indirectly due to company activity
26% of total emissions
In 2021, total CO₂ emissions (direct and indirect) of the Group amounted to approximately 11.7 million tons, of which approximately 68% is made up of direct emissions (Scope 1).
| Total Group CO2 emissions(*) | Unit | 2021 | 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| CO2 emissions (Scope 1) | t | 8,006,881 | 7,977,232 |
| CO2 emissions (Scope 2) | t | 707,044 | 572,227 |
| CO2 emissions (Scope 3) | t | 2,990,723 | 2,941,199 |
| Total CO2 emissions | t | 11,704,648 | 11,490,659 |
| CO2 emissions Scope 1 - Grey cement | kg CO2/TCE | 684 | 718 |
| CO2 emissions Scope 1 - White cement | kg CO2/TCE | 919 | 915 |
(*) Emissions generated by all the Group's businesses. 98% of the emissions are related to the production of grey and white cement.
Other atmosferic emissions
To prevent environmental impacts, we also constantly monitor other air emissions, mainly emissions such as: dust, sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen (NOx) linked to the combustion process for cooking raw flour, obtained from the processing of raw materials.
We invest in the best technologies to minimize emissions impact on local communities and the environment.