The decarbonization of the industrial sector is, currently, a matter of great relevance, since the industry is responsible for a large part of the world’s energy consumption and CO2 emissions. This process presents significant challenges, but also opens opportunities to implement new technologies and reduce environmental impact.
In this sense, the commitment of the Catalan cement industry to the decarbonization of the sector has added a new experience with the participation of sector representatives in the conference The Future of the Industrial Sector: Challenges and Opportunities for decarbonization held this May 30, the Serrallo Theater of Tarragona. In this event, the challenges and key factors in the decarbonization process and the future of the industries were delved into.
Speakers took part in the various tables of the session and addressed the main challenges facing the industry, the opportunities that decarbonization can open up for companies, as well as the possible barriers to overcome, with special emphasis on the results of the last large aid program derived from the Decarbonization PERTE and other financing tools specialized in R&D&I. Success stories and experiences of companies in circularity, sustainability and decarbonization projects were also presented.
It is important to note that the cement industry is essential for the development of the circular economy and, specifically, for the recovery of waste. In Catalonia alone, energy recovery in plants means that 46% of the fuel used comes from waste, avoiding the emission of more than 350,000 tons of CO2 and this waste ending up in a landfill.