Reflecting on “Decarbonising Construction: Is Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS) the Only Answer?”
Thank you to everyone who joined us last week for an evening exploring ‘Is Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS) the Only Answer?’. Over 30 people braved a dark, wet night to hear two fantastic presentations and engage in a great discussion about how to decarbonise the cement industry.
Cement is one of the world’s most carbon-intensive materials, and with the UK’s largest cement plant right here in the Hope Valley, responsible building has never been more critical. As the Government pushes for economic growth and ambitious housebuilding targets, demand for cement and concrete is set to rise, but so does the need to reduce emissions and safeguard our planet.
Our speakers, Michael Lord (Senior Analyst, Industrial Decarbonisation, Climate Change Committee) and Madeline Rihner (PhD Researcher, University of Sheffield), shared valuable insights on how carbon capture and storage (CCS) could play a role, while also exploring alternative materials, innovation, and ways to reduce demand.
It was great to see our community come together to learn more about these complex challenges. Thank you again to all attendees and speakers for making the evening such a success!
HVCA recognises that CCS, while controversial, may have to be a part of the overall decarbonisation of construction, along with the use of alternative materials and reducing the use of cement. We are closely monitoring Breedon’s proposals for CCS at the Hope Cement works (part of the Peak Cluster plans), including having discussions with their management. We will respond in due course to any planning application that is made. If anyone wants to get more involved in these discussions, please contact info@hopevalleyclimateaction.
If you would like to read through the slides from the presentations, you can find them below.
Michael Lord CCC – HVCA talk 27.10.25
Madeline Rihner – HVCA talk 27.10.25
Additional Information
Thousand cuts: a realistic route to decarbonise the UK cement and concrete sector by 2050 Link to Study
