Nationally consistent, performance-based standards and shifting from lowest-cost tendering to procurement rewarding performance, innovation and emission reductions is what the government needs to do procure low-carbon concrete at scale, according to a peak industry body.
Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia (CCAA) says adopting national performance-based standards on lower emission materials will “unlock the full potential of Australia’s construction materials sector”.
CCAA Chief Executive Michael Kilgariff said Infrastructure Australia’s recent 2025 Infrastructure Market Capacity Report and the five-year $242 billion infrastructure pipeline highlights growing expectations that major projects use recycled and low-carbon materials.
“If we align procurement, standards and project pipelines, we can maintain the flow of essential
materials while accelerating uptake of lower-emissions products, turning today’s record pipeline into long-term economic, social and environmental value,” Mr Kilgariff stated.
“Nationally consistent specifications would enable greater use of recycled aggregates, reclaimed fines, and low-carbon binders while ensuring safety and durability.”
Mr Kilgariff said concrete and quarry products are the backbone of Australia’s country’s housing, transport and energy buildout.
About the author
Desi Corbett
Desi is the Editor of Concrete in Australia, at the helm since December 2013, and our weekly news writer since 2016. Focused on concrete and construction for more than 11 years, her expertise in this field forms part of a journalism career spanning three decades. To get in touch please email desi@corbettcomms.com