GCCA Launches Net Zero Value Chain Partners to Broaden Industry Collaboration

The Global Cement and Concrete Association announced a new membership category called Net Zero Value Chain Partners, opening its decarbonization programs to organizations beyond cement producers, including equipment suppliers, admixture companies, and carbon capture technology providers. Six founding partners — CDE, KHD, Master Builders Solutions, Saint-Gobain, Schneider Electric, and Sinoma International — joined the program at launch.

Cement and concrete together represent the second most widely used material globally after water, and cement production accounts for approximately 7% to 8% of global CO2 emissions. The GCCA represents 50 member producers including many of the world's leading cement manufacturers, giving the new Net Zero Value Chain Partners program direct access to a substantial portion of global production capacity. Members joining under the new category will participate in joint programs, working groups, and events with producer members, sharing expertise on low-carbon cement and concrete production.

The expansion of the GCCA's membership structure reflects the industry's recognition that decarbonizing cement requires contributions from the entire value chain, not just producers. Carbon capture, utilization, and storage is a central element of most credible net zero cement roadmaps, given that a substantial portion of cement's CO2 emissions comes from the calcination of limestone — a process chemistry that cannot be eliminated by switching to renewable energy. Equipment and solution providers working on these technologies are natural partners for the GCCA's net zero mission.

The NZVCP initiative comes as the cement sector faces growing pressure from green building standards, sustainable construction procurement requirements, and regulatory measures such as the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which will apply to imported cement from 2026. India, as one of the world's largest cement producers, has significant interest in the development of globally recognized net zero pathways for the sector. Participation in value chain frameworks such as the GCCA's NZVCP may become relevant for Indian equipment and technology suppliers seeking international market access.

Key figure — 50 GCCA member producers representing major global cement manufacturers