The Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA) has unveiled its ambitious vision for greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction, underlining its commitment to guide the Thai cement and concrete industry toward achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050.
This pioneering initiative, powered by a Public-Private Partnership Model (PPP) and bolstered by multisectoral collaboration, has been reaffirmed at the 16th International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement (ICCC 2023). The event, held under the theme 'Further Reduction of CO2 Emissions and Circularity in the Cement and Concrete Industry,' took place from September 18 to 22, 2023, at the Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at Central World.
Dr. Chana Poomee, Chairman of the Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA), presided over the opening session of ICCC 2023, emphasising TCMA's pivotal role in steering the Thai cement and concrete industry towards becoming a climate action role model on the path to Net Zero by 2050, thanks to the PPP Model. This momentous declaration unfolded in front of an audience of over 700 delegates hailing from 49 countries worldwide, comprising scientists, researchers, manufacturers, users, students, and key stakeholders from the cement and concrete sector.
Dr. Poomee articulated the essence of this collaboration-driven approach, stating, "Collaboration is the key. TCMA is actively engaging in significant international platforms and working across various sectors and organisations in Thailand to ensure the continued reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with Thailand's 2050 Net Zero Cement & Concrete Roadmap. Thailand, led by TCMA in collaboration with TCA, proudly stands as the first nation to chart a defined roadmap and concrete actions in harmony with its National Determined Contributions (NDC) and the global direction set by the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA). This ambitious journey seeks to halve GHG emissions by 2030 and ultimately achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050. TCMA is fully prepared to collaborate with local and international sectors, including government bodies, professional groups, industrial sectors, and academia, through the Public-Private Partnership Model (PPP). The 'PPP-Saraburi Sandbox: A Low Carbon City' initiative has already been set in motion as a pilot project in Saraburi, serving as a testing ground for advanced technology, research and innovation, regulatory frameworks, knowledge dissemination, funding strategies, and environmentally sustainable approaches. This pilot will pave the way for replication in other provinces."
The International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement (ICCC) stands as a prestigious international academic forum with a rich history dating back to 1918. It has consistently bridged the gap between academia and industry, fostering productive exchanges between experts globally and facilitating collaboration in the cement and concrete sector.
Dr. Poomee acknowledged the significance of hosting ICCC 2023, stating, "We are honoured that the Thailand Concrete Association has been selected to host ICCC 2023. This year's event brings together 29 experts from across the globe who will share their insights and experiences related to CO2 reduction within the cement and concrete industry. Over 550
academic and technical papers will be presented, encompassing a diverse range of topics, including the future of construction, innovations in clinker production, advancements in hydration chemistry, and sustainable practices. These discussions and the sharing of knowledge will unlock opportunities for collaboration, ultimately enhancing the quality of cement and concrete as a vital solution to address the world's climate crisis while significantly curbing GHG emissions."