Structuring Demand for Lower-Carbon Materials | RMI

The report examines the potential of book and claim systems for decarbonizing steel and concrete.

Decarbonizing steel and concrete is crucial for achieving global climate targets as they are responsible for over 10% of global CO2 emissions.

Despite efforts to improve efficiency, demand for these materials is expected to rise by 2050, driven by population growth and urbanization.

The report explores how the “book and claim” system, commonly used in renewable energy and aviation, can be applied to steel and concrete sectors. This model allows organizations to invest in low-carbon materials without directly procuring them. Through certificates, companies can claim emissions reductions that help meet Scope 3 targets and support sustainable supply chains.

One of the key challenges is aligning stakeholders across the value chain, from producers to end-users. Developing a robust infrastructure, including certification schemes and reporting guidelines, is essential for scaling the system. Pilot projects and collective demand signals are already emerging as critical steps for market transformation.

This approach offers an opportunity to channel investments towards innovative, lower-carbon production technologies, such as hydrogen-based steelmaking and carbon capture in cement production.

Check the report here: https://bit.ly/4h6B31E