The decarbonisation of New Zealand’s cement and concrete sectors is accelerating according to Concrete NZ’s 2024 Sustainability Report which tracks progress towards a 2050 net-zero carbon target.

Concrete NZ Sustainability and Policy Director Tim Kleier said the industry has set ambitious goals: a 44% reduction in direct and electricity-related CO₂ emissions by 2030 (compared to a 2020 baseline) and a net-zero carbon industry 2050.

“Across the country, Concrete NZ’s members are modernising their operations, from upgrading batching infrastructure and optimising material inputs, to deploying electric vehicles and embracing digital technology for real-time quality control.”

Kleier says a standout result is the rapid uptake of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) – alternative low carbon binders such as granulated blast-furnace slag or fly ash that reduce reliance on traditional Portland cement.

“SCMs now account for 6.6% of all binders used in ready mixed concrete, more than four times the 2020 baseline share. With SCM infrastructure now in place to support the 2030 Roadmap target, the sector is well on its way to delivering tangible emissions reductions.”

Despite a year of softer building activity and wider economic uncertainty, the report demonstrates that momentum for decarbonisation remains strong. Just as importantly, it shows the industry can now track performance across a broader range of sustainability metrics, underpinned by significantly increased data submissions from members.

Wider Data Coverage, Clearer Results

The 2024 report draws on contributions from producers representing around 80% of ready mixed concrete volumes, with substantial participation from precast, masonry, and reinforcing processors. This high level of engagement is helping to build a robust evidence base that gives government, specifiers, and the wider community a clearer picture of the industry’s direction.

Concrete Production in the Spotlight

Kleier said each of the industry’s previous two sustainability reports have spotlighted a different theme. The 2021/22 edition examined the establishment of the SCM value chain, while the 2023 report showcased the growing uptake of SCMs in concrete mixes.

“This year the focus shifts to efficiency in concrete production and delivery – a critical lever in reducing the industry’s footprint.

“The results confirm that sustainability and performance can go hand-in-hand, delivering lower-carbon outcomes without compromising durability, strength, or cost-efficiency.”

Innovation in Action

The report includes case studies that highlight innovation across the sector:

• Kayasand Engineered Sand™ – Developed using advanced processing technology, this initiative transforms quarry by-product into high-performance engineered sand, reducing reliance on natural sand, an increasingly scarce and environmentally sensitive resource.
• Bridgeman Concrete and Verifi – By adopting digital technology to automate and optimise delivery, Bridgeman has improved efficiency and cut emissions across operations, showing how smarter systems in the delivery cycle can achieve meaningful carbon reductions.
• Bullocks Group and Eco-Max Concrete – A multi-pronged approach combining solar generation, electric loaders, and circular practices in water and recycled aggregates. Its flagship initiative, in partnership with HR Cement, is the adoption of Eco-Cem™ cement, enabling Eco-Max concrete that can cut around 90kg CO₂-e per cubic metre at a 40% blend, without compromising strength or finish quality.

“These examples demonstrate how local companies are embracing technology and innovation to reduce emissions, strengthen resilience, and support the shift towards a circular economy.”

Looking Ahead

He said the report also highlights the next stage of the industry’s journey. Building on the 2050 Net-Zero Carbon Roadmap, the Transformation to a Low Carbon Concrete Industry project is well underway. Due for release in early 2026, it will identify specific opportunities and actions to accelerate progress. Drawing expertise from across the value chain, the project will provide a detailed blueprint for delivering on the sector’s ambitions.

A Collective Effort

Concrete NZ Chief Executive, Rob Gaimster, said the 2024 Sustainability Report was further proof that collaboration is turning ambition into action.

“We are now tracking progress with more confidence than ever before, thanks to the commitment of our members. The breadth of data and innovation highlighted in this report demonstrates a real industry-wide determination to reduce emissions while continuing to deliver the durable, resilient concrete that New Zealand needs.”

The 2024 Sustainability Report is available here: View Report