CarbiCrete, a leading name in sustainable construction, is all set to make its innovative cement-free concrete masonry units (CMUs) commercially available in Ontario by early 2025. This significant milestone was achieved through a collaboration between CarbiCrete, Aecon, and Lafarge Canada. The first structure built with these CMUs was recently completed at Aecon’s Innovation and Training Centre in Holland Landing.

Revolutionizing Construction with Low-Carbon Concrete

Significance of the First Structure

The ribbon-cutting ceremony at Aecon’s centre was a momentous occasion. Representatives from CarbiCrete, Aecon, and Innocon, a subsidiary of Lafarge Canada, came together to mark this low-carbon construction practice milestone. The new building, intended for tool storage at Aecon’s training facility, showcases the potential of CarbiCrete’s CMUs. According to the company’s Environmental Product Declaration, these CMUs have a global warming potential 20 times lower than the industry average. This remarkable reduction is made possible by a process that eliminates the need for cement, a major source of emissions. Instead, carbon dioxide is mineralized within the concrete. Aecon’s commitment to sustainability is clearly demonstrated in this project, providing a practical example of how low-carbon solutions can be integrated into the construction industry.

Collaboration and Benchmark Setting

This collaboration between CarbiCrete, Aecon, and Lafarge Canada has set a new benchmark for the sector. It shows the viability of sustainable construction materials and their ability to drive positive change. CarbiCrete’s CMUs, which use a byproduct from steel-making to replace cement, not only reduce emissions but also permanently store carbon dioxide. This innovative approach is set to have a significant impact on the construction industry.Looking ahead, CarbiCrete’s products will be available through Canal Block in Port Colborne, further encouraging the use of low-carbon construction materials across Ontario. CarbiCrete chief executive officer Jacob Homiller emphasized the importance of low-carbon concrete, stating that it represents the greatest opportunity to reduce embodied carbon in the built environment. He is pleased to be collaborating with Aecon and Lafarge Canada to decarbonize the construction sector.Aecon Sustainability vice-president Prabh K Banga also expressed excitement about the collaboration. They are testing low-carbon concrete and cement-free concrete blocks, taking a significant step towards advancing sustainability in the construction industry. By combining their expertise, they are pushing the boundaries of innovation and addressing the pressing challenges of carbon emissions in the built environment.CarbiCrete’s journey towards commercial availability is a testament to the power of sustainable construction. It offers a promising future for the industry, where low-carbon solutions can play a crucial role in reducing environmental impact.