The British Standards Institution (BSI) has introduced new guidance to help the construction industry embrace sustainable alternatives to traditional Portland cement-based concrete. The recently published BSI Flex 350 Version 2 highlights alternative binder systems (ABS) that can be used to produce lower-carbon concrete, promoting a more environmentally friendly approach to construction.
These alternatives, such as geopolymer or alkali-activated materials, offer a way to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of concrete. The guidance provides a framework for assessing ABS concretes, ensuring they are recognised as suitable alternatives to conventional Portland cement-based concrete in building projects.
Although tailored for use in the UK, the recommendations can be applied in other countries looking to adopt ABS concrete in their construction practices.
Supporting the Transition to Net Zero
With the UK consuming around 11.7 million tonnes of Portland cement annually, the environmental impact is substantial. According to the European Ready Mixed Concrete Organization, Portland cement production is responsible for nearly 90% of the greenhouse gas emissions associated with concrete production.
BSI notes that using ABS concretes could play a key role in reducing these emissions while still maintaining the benefits of concrete construction.
Clare Price, BSI’s sector lead for the built environment, stated: "The built environment has a huge role to play in supporting the transition to net zero. This guidance is designed to empower engineers to make more sustainable choices to reduce carbon emissions in construction projects, while giving all involved the confidence in the suitability of chosen materials."
This new guidance is an important step towards decarbonising construction and helping the industry meet net-zero targets.
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