The Oil Sustainability Program (OSP), in partnership with PIF, SIRC, NEOM, SIKA, and ClimateCrete, has launched the "NovusCrete" Consortium to innovate in sustainable concrete solutions. The initiative prioritizes localization using materials like seawater, recycled construction waste, and fine sand, supported by entities like the American Concrete Institute (ACI). ClimateCrete, a KAUST spin-off, uses patented technology to transform fine sand into high-quality concrete sand, reducing cement use and CO2 emissions by up to 60%. Why it matters: The consortium and ClimateCrete's technology represent significant steps towards sustainable construction practices in the region, aligning with Saudi Arabia's carbon neutrality goals and fostering a deep-tech startup ecosystem.
KAUST and the Oil Sustainability Program (OSP) have signed two agreements focused on sustainability assessments and methodologies, including life-cycle assessment (LCA) and life-cycle cost (LCC) modeling for seawater concrete technology. The collaboration aims to strengthen national sustainability capabilities, improve data quality, and standardize assessment frameworks in line with Saudi Vision 2030. A KAUST-hosted workshop convened global experts to advance the adoption of LCA for sustainable development in Saudi Arabia, also launching EPD Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: The partnerships and initiatives signal a commitment to integrating sustainability into industrial and infrastructure development in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the Kingdom's broader environmental goals.
KAUST has launched the Future Cement Initiative (FCI) in partnership with the Ministry of Industries and Mineral Resources and the National Committee of Cement Companies. The FCI aims to improve the economic and environmental competitiveness of cement manufacturing in Saudi Arabia through technology development. The initiative will focus on research into manufacturing technologies, emission reduction, and effective strategies for cement manufacturing. Why it matters: The FCI can position Saudi Arabia as a leader in the Middle East's cement industry while diversifying its economy and addressing environmental challenges.
KAUST hosted the Future Cement Initiative (FCI) National Workshop, gathering over 200 experts to advance low-carbon cement production in Saudi Arabia. Researchers presented findings on using locally sourced clay as sustainable cement blends, reducing the need for carbon-intensive clinker. The workshop addressed cement decarbonization, circular economy models, and the role of AI in sustainable construction. Why it matters: This initiative supports Saudi Arabia's sustainability goals by modernizing cement manufacturing and leveraging regional resources to reduce carbon emissions in the construction sector.
ClimateCrete, a KAUST spinout, has raised investment for its technology that modifies sand particles to make them suitable for concrete manufacturing. The patented tech reduces the need for cement and lowers CO2 emissions by up to 60 percent. Tests show a significant increase in strength compared to untreated sand. Why it matters: This technology addresses the global shortage of suitable construction sand and supports Saudi Arabia's carbon-neutrality goals by enabling a 100% domestic supply chain for concrete.