Climate change is a global priority , prompting nations to draft policies for mitigation . Notably , 40 % of global CO 2 emissions arise from the built environment , necessitating innovative solutions to reduce emissions from building operations and materials . In this month ’ s editor ’ s question , we ask : As the demand for energy-efficient buildings grows , what innovative solutions and materials are making the most significant contributions to achieving carbon-neutral construction projects ?
A team of researchers from Chung-Ang University in Korea are researching CCU processes that use waste materials or abundant natural resources as raw materials to ensure their economic feasibility . The team , led by Professor Sungho Yoon and Associate Professor Chul-Jin Lee , recently published a study where they discuss the utilisation of industrial CO 2 and dolomite for the production of two commercially viable products : calcium formate and magnesium oxide .
Using a catalyst to add hydrogen to CO 2 resulted in Calcium formate , a cement additive , de-icing agent and animal feed additive and Magnesium oxide which is extensively used in the construction and pharmaceutical industries . The process was viable and extremely rapid , yielding the products in 5 minutes at room temperature . Researchers also estimate this process could reduce global warming potential by 20 % when compared to traditional calcium formate production methods .
“ Based on the results , we can say our method offers an eco-friendly CO 2 conversion alternative that could replace the conventional approaches , potentially contributing to the reduction of industrial CO 2 emissions ,” Yoon explains .
Our first response is JON BONNAR , CO- FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR
AT COTSWOLD ENERGY GROUP , now part of South Coast Insulation Services ( SCIS ), the UK ’ s largest eco-installer , who believes CO 2 heat pumps are a great alternative from traditional methods .
“ As the global demand for energy-efficient buildings continues to rise , it becomes imperative to explore innovative solutions and materials that can significantly contribute to achieving carbon-neutral construction projects .
“ Traditionally , many renewable heating systems , especially in commercial settings , have relied on Hydrofluorocarbons ( HFCs ) and Hydrofluoroolefins ( HFOs ). However , these synthetic chemicals have raised environmental concerns . HFCs in particular , are known for their high Global Warming Potential ( GWP ), leading to bans in various countries . HFOs were initially considered a more environmentally friendly alternative , now has raised alarms due to their potential to produce trifluoroacetic acid ( TFA ), which poses risks to both human health and the environment .
“ To address these challenges , a promising approach is to shift towards natural refrigerant-based heating systems . Currently , three viable natural refrigerants are dominating the market : ammonia , propane and carbon dioxide . In large commercial projects where diverse heating
requirements are common , CO 2 heat pumps have emerged as a standout choice ”
We ask three more experts from Tunley Environmental and GeoPura , for their insights on how we can make carbonneutral construction a reality .
WHAT INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS AND MATERIALS ARE MAKING THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS TO ACHIEVING CARBON-NEUTRAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS ?
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