28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) EU side event

Our project coordinator, Liesbeth Horckmans from VITO, proudly presented Carbon4Minerals at the COP28 EU side event, "Energy-intensive industries: Innovative Technologies Toward Climate Neutrality."

Energy-intensive industries play a crucial role in Europe's industrial value chains; yet they are responsible for 17% of greenhouse gas emissions in the EU (2019). The event focused on the significant contributions of initiatives within the H2020 and Horizon Europe programs, highlighting breakthrough research and innovation in decarbonization technologies. 

Watch Liesbeth as she provides information on the global effort to achieve zero emissions by 2050, with a focus on the challenges faced by the cement industry, responsible for 6 to 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The inherent emissions from the cement production process, particularly the transformation of limestone to clinker, present a unique challenge that cannot be fully addressed through energy efficiency or renewable energy solutions.

The Carbon4Minerals project aims to integrate various approaches to carbon capture and utilization. The project involves capturing CO2 from the flue gases of energy-intensive industries like steel, cement, and ceramics, and using the captured CO2 to produce alternative cements and construction products directly. The goal is to contribute significantly to reducing CO2 emissions in the EU.

Carbon4Minerals was among the three Horizon Europe proposals featured at this prestigious event, showcasing the European Commission's recognition of our work. We are proud to be part of this movement, demonstrating processes that incorporate energy efficiency, electrification, renewables, hydrogen utilization, and carbon capture and utilization.

A huge thank you to Liesbeth Horckmans for representing us and to everyone who supports our mission!