Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia (CCAA) notes the 2035 Climate Change Target announced by the Federal Government and the accompanying sector plans to drive down emissions across the economy.
“Our sector builds the foundations of the nation’s housing, transport, energy and social infrastructure”, said Michael Kilgariff, Chief Executive Officer, CCAA.
“Achieving this target will require a carefully managed transition that cuts emissions while keeping materials reliable, affordable and available.
“The Government’s approach reflects many of the areas our industry has been calling for – clearer carbon data, performance-based procurement, more consistent standards, and the infrastructure to support zero-emissions transport fleets,” Mr Kilgariff said.
“It shows how decarbonisation can go hand in hand with building resilience and innovation, while supporting growth.
“Public and private procurement decisions will make or break Australia’s decarbonisation ambitions. By embedding low-carbon requirements into procurement policies, governments can drive demand for sustainable materials and unlock investment across the construction materials supply chain.
“The most powerful lever the Government can pull now is demand-side. If major infrastructure projects consistently require lower embodied carbon, industry will respond by accelerating the adoption of new processes and technologies. This will create the business case for large-scale deployment of lower carbon cement, concrete and aggregates.”
“Procurement frameworks that reward innovation will not only cut emissions but also boost local manufacturing, create skilled jobs, and strengthen Australia’s sovereign capability in building materials.”
CCAA emphasised that ongoing collaboration will be essential to get the settings right. This includes embedding whole-of-life carbon in project decisions, modernising specifications, ensuring access to low-emissions energy and transport, and supporting the uptake of lower carbon materials through training and procurement reform.
“CCAA and its members are committed to playing our part. We are ready to work with government, industry and the community to deliver a practical and balanced pathway to net zero — one that delivers emissions reduction while keeping Australia building,” Mr Kilgariff said.