Alternative Raw Materials
Part of a Lower Carbon Future
Traditional raw materials at Irish Cement consist of virgin raw materials such as Limestones, Shales and small quantities of Bauxites. Limestone consists mainly of calcium carbonate, which on entry to the high temperature of the cement kiln releases carbon dioxide. Alternative raw materials replace a portion of traditional raw materials, lowering the carbon footprint, while preserving virgin raw materials, and also contributing to the National Waste Management Plan for a Circular Economy.
Since the mid 2000’s, Irish Cement has been pioneering circularity initiatives by using a local alternative raw material called Overburden. Overburden is essentially the topsoil which lies over the bedrock of the Limestone quarry. Historically overburden had been stripped and placed in an Overburden mound landfill, so reusing it in the process contributes to the raw material chemical composition, preserves virgin raw materials, while also significantly reducing its deposit to landfill.
The Company continues to explore other alternative materials which would be suitable for use in our raw mix. As part of this strategy to maximise recycled content, our focus will also include an increased use of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) such as Slag and Fly ash.
2025 Performance
10.6%
Alternative raw materials were used in the manufacture of cement clinker at Platin.
7.3%
Alternative raw materials used in the manufacture of cement clinker at Limerick.
