El hormigón: el material de construcción que más contribuye al calentamiento global

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world and is a crucial component of modern architecture. Unfortunately, despite its durability and strength, it is also one of the biggest contributors to global warming. This is because of the tremendous amounts of energy needed to produce it, as well as the release of carbon dioxide during the manufacturing process.

According to a recent study published in Nature, concrete is responsible for around 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions, due in part to the enormous amounts of energy consumed in the manufacturing process. This makes it even more polluting than air travel, which accounts for around 2.5% of global CO2 emissions.

The study also noted that the problem is likely to get worse as developing countries continue to build their infrastructure. Demand for new buildings and roads is expected to increase, which means that concrete production will continue to expand. This in turn will lead to even higher levels of greenhouse gas emissions.

However, there are alternatives, such as recycling existing concrete structures or using alternative materials like timber. There is also ongoing research into creating more sustainable forms of concrete, using waste products like ash and slag instead of traditional cement.

In conclusion, the use of concrete is a critical issue that requires serious attention. It is vital to find ways to reduce or eliminate the carbon emissions associated with concrete production to mitigate its impact on climate change. As individuals, we can all play a role by advocating for sustainable building practices and choosing more environmentally-friendly building materials whenever possible.