Preface: Responsible concrete

About half of all the material is used for building in the world. In Europe, the majority of building is based on the use of concrete. Its triumph has been indisputable. Concrete was used already by the ancient Romans. And we use it, too.

The European Union is trying to tackle the climate change challenge through legislation. The most recent amendment to the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) makes it compulsory to calculate the GWP (global warming potential) and further improve the energy efficiency of buildings. All buildings are expected to be emission-free in 2030. The implementation of the EPBD is currently underway in Finland. The first one to reach the consultation stage is the amendment to the Building Act which provides the definition of an emission-free building and more specific requirements for the issuance of decrees.

Manufacturers of construction products must begin the application of EU’s new Construction Products Regulation (CPR) in January 2026. They are required to start to calculate the carbon footprint of their products as the updating of standards proceeds. CPR also lays down requirements for public procurement: a green version of a construction product should be opted for, where available. The new CPR increases the possibility of reusing construction products.

In Finland, the government fights the climate change with legislation. The new Building Act entered into force at the beginning of January. The calculation of the carbon foot print will start for building permits applied in 2026.

The construction industry has also launched actions. A need exists for new innovations and low-carbon concrete. The economic trend prevailing in construction allows for contemplation. How do we want to build going forward? Economic downturns and wars all end at some point. Wars are followed by reconstruction and downturns by upswings.

Will green concrete last from one generation to the next and will it remain as a memento of the time when climate change was brought under control?

Kirsi Martinkauppi, Director of Responsibility, Rakennustuoteteollisuus RTT