ABSTRACT
Abstract The concrete industry uses different types of binders in production processes. Local opportunities in various geographical regions are then a primary parameter. A major compound in all binder types is Ordinary Portland cement. Production of cement clinker, in the production of OPC, depends on the properties of raw materials and investments made for reduction of emissions and energy consumption. Modern cement plants with electrostatic filters, catalytic processes for reduction of NOX and scrubbers for reduction of SOX emissions have much better environmental properties than old plants with low investment characteristics. Additions used in the cement industry or in the ready mixed industry normally reduce the environmental impact due to minimization of the use of OPC and due to reduction of the global production of waste. A high priority task is the evaluation and comparison of the environmental impact for the use of different building materials. A general recommendation is that exchange of building systems of concrete, steel or wood will produce small environmental effects. However, it is very important to choose types of material to optimize the functional properties. Especially a long service life will minimize the environmental impact. Keywords: Emissions, environmental properties, concrete, steel, wood, life cycle, service life, carbondioxide.
