Grant focus: The concrete industry accounts for 8% of global CO₂ emissions, with 93% of cement consumption is in developing countries. While low-carbon alternatives exist, they are often too costly for wide adoption. Through 450 interviews and 10 site visits, the team advanced an affordable, scalable solution tailored to local needs. SPIRE funding supported research and development, including testing landfill ash as a cement substitute, along with early prototypes and field studies, laying the foundation for a practical, low-cost path to sustainable concrete. The team is now operating a pilot facility producing 0.5 tons of low-carbon cement per day. They have partnered with leading industry players, including Holcim, Heidelberg, CRH, and Turner Construction. Additionally, they are actively working with 15 coal ash landfill sites to source materials and scale their solution. Grant amount: $6,000
