Advancing Sustainable Construction Management: Innovative Carbon Reduction Strategies for Emerging Markets As the world transitions towards a carbon-neutral future, the cement and concrete industry stands at a pivotal crossroad. This presentation delves into the array of opportunities available for the industry to contribute significantly to the march towards net-zero emissions. By leveraging innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and strategic collaborations, the cement and concrete sector can mitigate its environmental footprint while fostering economic growth. Key focus areas include the adoption of alternative materials, such as supplementary cementitious materials and novel binders, to reduce carbon intensity in production processes. Furthermore, advancements in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) present promising avenues for emissions reduction. The integration of renewable energy sources and enhancements in energy efficiency also play integral roles in achieving net-zero targets. Through proactive engagement with stakeholders and adherence to stringent environmental standards, the cement and concrete industry can position itself as a leader in the global sustainability movement while capitalizing on emerging opportunities for growth and innovation in emerging markets, especially in Africa. Moreover, the cement and concrete industry's role in emerging markets, particularly in Africa, presents a unique opportunity to drive sustainable development and foster inclusive growth. With rapid urbanization and infrastructure development underway across the continent, there is a growing demand for affordable and environmentally friendly building materials. By leveraging its expertise and resources, the industry can help meet this demand while simultaneously promoting sustainability and resilience. In conclusion, the cement and concrete industry has a vital role to play in shaping the future of our planet. By embracing sustainability and innovation, it can pave the way for a greener, more sustainable world for generations to come. Let us seize this opportunity to build a brighter future for all.

1. By
Engr. Nimot Muili, MSc FNSE,PMP
Associate | Cities, Climate and Sustainability Services
ARUP, Nigeria
16 April 2024
Advancing Sustainable Construction Management:
Innovative Carbon Reduction Strategies for Emerging
Markets

2. Nimot Muili is the Climate & Sustainability Portfolio (CSSP) Manager, based in the ARUP, Lagos
Nigeria Office. She plays strategic role in the firm’s planning & advisory and enabling
infrastructure services.
Her background is civil & environmental engineering and project management, with extensive
work experience in design and delivery of projects related to cities development / urban renewal,
renewable energy and advisory services to improve city resilience.
Nimot Muili led multi-disciplinary teams and works with different parts of the Arup world on multi
sector projects to design and develop pragmatic sustainable, and cost-efficient solutions to improve
cities, vulnerable and micro areas.
Meet the speaker

3. Context
As the world transitions towards a carbon-neutral future, the cement and concrete industry stands at
a pivotal crossroad. This presentation delves into the array of opportunities available for the
industry to contribute significantly to the march towards net-zero emissions.
By leveraging innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and strategic collaborations, the
cement and concrete sector can mitigate its environmental footprint while fostering economic
growth. Key focus areas include the adoption of alternative materials, such as supplementary
cementitious materials and novel binders, to reduce carbon intensity in production processes.
Furthermore, advancements in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) present promising
avenues for emissions reduction. The integration of renewable energy sources and enhancements in
energy efficiency also play integral roles in achieving net-zero targets. Through proactive
engagement with stakeholders and adherence to stringent environmental standards, the cement and
concrete industry can position itself as a leader in the global sustainability movement while
capitalizing on emerging opportunities for growth and innovation in emerging markets,
especially in Africa. Thus presenting the opportunities to build it right the first time.
Advancing Sustainable Construction Management: Innovative Carbon Reduction Strategies for
Emerging Markets

4. Outline
Context
Industry Spotlight
Recommendations
Challenges and Opportunities
Carbon Reduction Strategies

5. Context
As the world transitions towards a carbon-neutral
future, the cement and concrete industry stands at a
pivotal crossroad. In the dynamic landscape of
construction management, the imperative to adopt
sustainable practices has gained prominence.
This is particularly true for emerging markets, where
rapid urbanization, infrastructure development,
and economic growth intersect with environmental
challenges.
The focus of this topic is on innovative strategies that
address carbon reduction in construction projects
while considering the unique context of emerging
economies.
Advancing Sustainable
Construction Management:
Innovative Carbon Reduction
Strategies for Emerging Markets

6. Context
Commonly listed Emerging market countries
Sources -https://www.thestreet.com/markets/what-are-emerging-markets-14819803 / https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/emergingmarketeconomy.asp, https://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/imf.asp
Emerging market economies are those that are transitioning from a low income, less developed economy to a modern,
industrial economy with a higher standard of living.
These countries have a unified currency, stock market, and banking system and are in the process of industrializing.
The World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF) and
other financial institutions have categorized both as EMs.
Both are prominent economies in Africa and has shown
significant growth potential over the years.
They face both opportunities and challenges as it continues
to develop its infrastructure, attract investments, and address
socio-economic needs.
The
1. India
2. Mexico
3. Russia
4. Iran
5. Saudi Arabia
6. China
7. Brazil
8. Thailand
9. Indonesia
10. Argentina
11. Chile
12. Colombia
13. Egypt
14. Hungary
15. Malaysia
16. Philippines
17. Poland
18. Turkey
19. United Arab Emirates
20. South Africa
21. Taiwan
22. Colombia,
23. Czech Republic
24. Greece

7. Industry Spotlight
The projection that developing countries will experience a 100% increase in population by 2050 has been reported by
various sources.
To date, the population of Ghana is approximately 34M+, ranks
47th globally in terms of population.
The population density in Ghana is 150 people per square
kilometer (388 people per square mile).
Approximately 56.7% of the population lives in urban areas
To date, the population of Nigeria is approximately 227M+, is the
most populous country in Africa and ranks sixth globally in terms
of population.
The population density in Nigeria is 246 people per square
kilometer (636 people per square mile).
Approximately 53.9% of the population resides in urban areas
Source - https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/nigeria-population/
According to the United Nations, the current world
population of 7.6 billion is expected to reach 9.8
billion by 2050.
This growth will be mainly concentrated in
developing countries, particularly in Africa and
Asia.
Notably, India, Nigeria, and Pakistan are expected
to show significant population increases, and sub-
Saharan Africa’s population is practically
doubling by 2050. The challenge lies in addressing
sustainable development goals amidst this
demographic shift.
Cement and concrete sector’s critical role is required to support these emerging economies

8. Industry
Spotlight
I. Construction boom
• Surging Infrastructure development - due to factors such as rapid urbanization, population growth, and increased
investment.
• Urban renewal - new transportation networks, energy projects, and commercial buildings are driving this construction
surge.
• Investors - both domestic and international, are drawn, seeking opportunities for growth and returns.
II. Resource Constraints in Cities
As cities expand, they face several resource-related challenges:
➢ Materials: The demand for construction materials (such as cement, steel, and aggregates) often outstrips supply.
➢ Infrastructure: Strain on existing infrastructure (roads, utilities, etc.) due to population growth.
➢ Regulatory frameworks must adapt to address these constraints while promoting sustainable practices.
➢ Water: Ensuring adequate water supply for construction and urban needs.
➢ Energy: Meeting energy demands sustainably is crucial through exploring materials with low embodied carbon
➢ Land: Balancing urban development with green spaces and preservation.
➢ Labor: Skilled labor shortages can hinder project timelines, innovation and quality.

9. Global Impact of Building
Construction Materials
A larger portion of materials used in building vs other uses
Adopted from Europa.eu
The building construction industry consumes 40% of
natural materials entering the global market

10. The challenge for African countries is to meet the
needs of the rapidly growing urban populations in a
way that integrates climates resilience from today
onwards, reducing the need for adaptation
tomorrow.
As a continent, Africa can lead the way and adopt a
very enlightened, future-focused form of
development.
Over the coming 30 years in which it faces its peak
of urbanisation, Africa can seize the opportunity to
absorb the effects of climate change within its built
environment and infrastructure by adopting new
mindset and creating blueprints for climate
resilience and sustainable construction.
Build it
Better First!

11. Decarbonisation Pathways
• Developing innovative products with lower carbon footprints i.e. such as
low-carbon cements and concrete mixes. This would include feedstock
substitute in cement by replacing a percentage of traditional clinker, a key
ingredient in cement production, with alternative materials such as limestone
fillers, recycled concrete fines, blast furnace slag (GGBS), natural
pozolanas, fly ash and calcined clay (LC3), the most feasible.
• Deploying Bioenergy and Carbon Capture Storage (BECCS): BECCS
incorporates producing energy from biomass and capturing and storing the
carbon from this process to produce negative carbon emissions.
• Low-carbon heating alternatives: transitioning from gas/fossil fuel-based
industrial heat processes to zero-emission technologies such as solar boilers,
heat pumps, and electric boilers, particularly in cement production.
Source: Nigeria Energy Transition Plan/Cement Decarbonization Webinar_March 2024
The cement and concrete sector is the highest emitting manufacturing sector in Nigeria, mainly due to the clinker production
process; contributing to 33% of overall industrial emissions. This industry sector can mitigate its environmental and carbon
footprint while fostering economic growth by.:

12. Strategic Collaborations
• Developing innovative products with lower carbon footprints such as
prefab low-carbon cements and concrete mixes, self-healing concrete can
repair cracks autonomously, ensuring the longevity of structures.
• Collaboration: Public-private partnerships and international
cooperation to improve technology
• Circular Economy: Reusing and recycling materials to reduce waste,
by also establishing a reward system that would enhance cultural
acceptance.
• Resilience Planning: Anticipating and mitigating resource shocks
(e.g., water scarcity, energy disruptions, coarse aggregate extraction).
• Technology: Leveraging digital tools for efficient project management,
resource optimization, data-driven decision-making – establishing
database for alternative materials sources, Embodied Carbon (EC)
factor, Environmental Product Declaration (EPD).
Built Environment Professionals & Stakeholders

13. Walking the Talk
Case Studies / Local Initiatives

14. Policy Advocacy in the Construction Industry
❑ Government Collaboration: to advocate
for sustainable urban policies creates a
conducive environment for eco-friendly
practices.
❑ Regulatory Bodies: to establish and
uphold green construction standards
ensures industry-wide adherence.
❑ Industry Leadership: Construction
industry leaders play a vital role in
shaping policies, influencing positive
changes for sustainable urban
development.
Strategic Collaborations
By 2050, Africa will be home
to 1.3 billion more people than
it is today. That’s more
than half of the world’s
projected population
growth of 2.4 billion people.
This means
a huge demand for buildings,
with 80 percent of those that
will exist in 2050
yet to be built
This Africa Manifesto was developed through consultation with the World
Green Building Council Africa Regional Network of member Green Building
Councils, as well as contributions from the Building To COP27 coalition partners
and Africa Regional Network regional partners, Majid Al Futtaim and DAR
Group.

15. Strategic Collaborations
The Africa We Want is one where
every African, from Cape Town to
Cairo, prospers in a resilient,
socially inclusive, equitable,
environmentally sustainable and
culturally vibrant built
environment.
VISION AND MISSION
• Energy
• Water
• Materials
• Finance
• Infrastructure

16. Art, Culture and Tourism
Country: Nigeria / South – South
Status: Ongoing
Key facts - Reduce the use of Carbon Intensive Materials & Process
The Pavilion is to be located within the ancient walls of a major City in the South –
South part of Nigeria and would form a part of an Archaeology District. The
complex is designed for varying architectural purposes which are expected to
evolve over time and will serve as a focal point for social and educational
development and ultimately, attract international tourism.
The structure is a one-storey development with an upper roof and an underground
at one end of the building. The structure which will be founded on a raft will be
constructed of locally available materials- concrete and rammed earth, aimed at
“Reducing the use of Carbon Intensive Materials”.
The service life of the building is assumed to be 50 years. Fire resistance of the
structural elements of the building is assumed to a certain acceptable (2 hours)
limit.
Arup is leading the civil / structural engineering design and traffic studies for the
pedestrianization of a part of the existing road, toward carbon reduction.
Strategic Collaborations
Use of Local Materials

17. Hollow-core slab
technology
Aimed at
decreasing the
consumption of
natural resources
(50% on concrete
and 25% on rebar)
Actualizing Decarbonisation Pathways

18. Green Construction and Sustainable Local Materials
❑ Sustainable Materials: Using eco-friendly materials in construction
reduces resource depletion and environmental harm.
❑ Certifications: LEED, EDGE and BREEAM set standards for green
buildings, promoting sustainable practices.
❑ Circular Economy: Embracing circular economy principles ensures
resources are reused, reducing waste and environmental strain.
Source: Arup
• Features include sustainable energy designs using
Brise-soleil (sun breaker) to reduce sunlight
warming by up to 30%
• eliminated the retaining wall around the
basement and mechanical stormwater
evacuation, in addition to the cost-effective
Structural framing system adopted

19. EcoSoils For Bridge and Link Roads |
Reduce the use of Carbon Intensive Materials & Process
Arup were initially commissioned to carry out construction supervision services for the
link roads on either side of the bridge located in the South-West of Nigeria. Subsequently
Arup were engaged to carry out value engineering and peer review of the 500m span
bridge design.
Our review showed that the bridge could be reduced to about 150m and the balance
length provided with Prefabricated vertical drains (PVD) and Geotextile basal
reinforcement (Stabilenka) by EcoSoils. The material was used to improve the soil
bearing capacity, a cost-effective method of reducing the bridge span from an initial
500m to a 150m span bridge afterwards.
Contractor's initial Proposal of 500m length of Bridge
Optimised section of 150m length of Bridge by Arup

20. Cassava Concrete structure: Research at the University of Lagos, Nigeria
https://www.bam.de/Content/EN/Standard-Articles/Topics/Infrastructure/article-green-concrete-from-africa.html Credit: Dr. Kolawole Adisa Olonode of the Department of Civil Engineering
Collaboration and aligning
research with the industry
Research and development:
Continuously investing in
research and development to
identify new technologies and
practices that can reduce the
building sector's environmental
impact.

21. Material
flows
Carbon
factors
Project
calcs
Carbon
insight
WE ARE HERE
INVEST IN ARUP 1
Researching what the
typical materials are in
our contexts, where these
materials come from and
how they are processed
INVEST IN ARUP 2
Quantifying the carbon
involved in obtaining and
processing materials in
our contexts through
developing carbon
factors
Partly Implemented
Using material quantities
on projects, and carbon
factors, to perform
carbon calculation
Partly Implemented
Using data on projects to
gain carbon insights
and be able to make better
decisions
WHOLE LIFE CARBON
ASSESSMENTS ON
ALL BUILDING PROJECTS
NEW WORKSTREAMS
& GREATER INFLUENCE
Our carbon journey
Invest in Arup EC Research

22. Why research embodied carbon in African construction?
(1) OECD,2020
https://read.oecd-ilibrary.org/development/africa-s-urbanisation-dynamics-2020_b6bccb81-en
+ 950m
By 2050 1 billion additional
people in African cities (1)
in cities
Opportunity to leapfrog
more ‘carbon advanced’
construction industries and
meet local needs
Work towards
international carbon
targets for sustainable
development
Urban Growth Protect our planet New pathways
Existing carbon
databases typically do
not extend to African
countries
Data??

23. IiA outputs
Research report
Carbon factor development training
Data in PowerBI tool
Carbon factor development one pager
Excel data

24. Nigeria
Overview
Calculation of carbon factors for the most
common materials used locally
o Steel (Rebar)
o Timber
o Blockwork
o Aggregates (Stone)
o Cement and Concrete (reinforced and
unreinforced) mixes
Synthetic fiber
Steel fiber
Polypropylene fiber
Steel fiber in concrete
Courtesy: Lafarge
Green Cement and other products

25. Other Strategic Initiatives

26. ❑ Smart Materials: These materials can respond to
environmental stimuli, adapting their properties accordingly.
For example, self-healing concrete can repair cracks
autonomously, ensuring the longevity of structures.
❑ Data-Driven Decision Making: Analysing data from
sensors and IoT devices helps optimise building operations,
leading to energy savings and reduced maintenance costs.
❑ Energy-Efficient Systems: Design building to integration
of renewable energy sources like solar panels and advanced
HVAC systems reduces a building’s carbon footprint and
energy consumption.
Strategic Initiatives

27. ❑ Organising Social Initiatives: Community engagement
activities like clean-up drives and green awareness
campaigns create environmental consciousness.
❑ Supporting Social Projects: Investing in green schools
and community centres fosters social equity and
environmental education.
❑ Inclusion Efforts: Ensuring marginalized communities
benefit from green initiatives promotes social inclusion.
Social Initiatives and Community Engagement

28. A few of the major challenges include
❑ Cost Implications: Initial investment in
sustainable technologies and materials can be
high, deterring some stakeholders.
❑ Limited Awareness: Lack of understanding
about the long-term benefits of sustainable
construction practices among various
stakeholders.
❑ Resistance to Change: Traditional construction
methods, cultural acceptance and mindsets that
resist adopting new, eco-friendly practices.
Common Challenges

29. Knowledge gap in developing countries – calculating EC / Life Cycle Costing is complicated
Common Challenges

30. ❑ Financial Innovations: Introducing incentives, tax breaks,
and green financing options can offset the initial costs,
making sustainable practices financially attractive.
❑ Educational Campaigns: Conducting workshops,
seminars, and online courses to educate stakeholders about
the advantages of sustainable construction.
❑ Industry Collaboration: Collaborating with other
construction firms, research institutions, and NGOs to
share knowledge, resources, and best practices.
Recommendations

31. Remember, the decarbonization of the
built environment plays a pivotal role
in the journey to net-zero.
It requires bold actions, collaboration,
and a commitment to sustainable
practices.
Conclusion
Together, Let’s Build a Sustainable Tomorrow!

32. Nimot Muili
+234 808 463 4638
Nimot.Muili@arup.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nimotmuili/