Foundations of Sustainability for Precast Producers-Lower-Carbon Precast Concrete- Webinar

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this PCI webinar, Leah James, the moderator, introduces a session focused on lowering the carbon footprint of precast concrete. The speaker, Thomas Ketron, Director of Sustainability at PCI, discusses foundational concepts related to sustainability and how precast producers can adapt to evolving market demands and regulations. The webinar highlights the importance of environmental transparency through the use of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), guided by Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) and Product Category Rules (PCRs). Ketron emphasizes that the industry needs to reduce the embodied carbon of its products due to pressures from market forces, regulatory demands, and the responsibility of industry leadership in sustainable development.<br /><br />Key strategies include using Portland limestone cement, supplementary cementitious materials, and admixtures to lower carbon footprints. Additionally, operational strategies at the plant level are crucial. The series aims to provide tools and knowledge for producers to remain competitive and adapt to stricter environmental standards. Future webinars will delve deeper into cement chemistry and mix design strategies for reduced carbon emissions. The session concludes with a Q&A, addressing the use and comparison of EPDs, the role of sustainability in plant operations, and engaging staff in sustainable practices.

Keywords

carbon footprint

precast concrete

sustainability

Environmental Product Declarations

Life Cycle Assessments

Portland limestone cement

regulatory demands

sustainable development