Study finds basalt could cut cement CO2 emissions by over 80 percent using existing production tech

Basalt replaces limestone and slashes cement CO2 drastically

A new study argues the cement industry could dramatically cut emissions by switching raw materials. Instead of limestone, scientists propose using carbon-free, calcium-rich silicate rocks like basalt. Because limestone must be heated above 1,500°C—releasing large amounts of CO2—basalt-based production could cut emissions by more than 80% in theory, and by over 25% even with today’s fossil-fuel-heavy energy. The research also suggests existing technologies could enable the change, producing standard Portland cement.