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Five Sustainability Best Practices in the Ready Mix Concrete Industry

The construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation as it strives to become more sustainable. A key player in this shift is the ready-mix concrete industry, which has been implementing innovative strategies to reduce its environmental impact. 


The team at MK1 is squarely at the center of this industry wide shift. Sustainability plays a primary role in our ready mix concrete practices, serving as a standard that has seen our mixes approved for TXDOT, City of Austin, and City of San Antonio use. 


Sustainability in concrete shows itself through the implementation of environmentally-friendly materials and through modern methods that limit its impact on natural ecosystems. 


The Environmental Impact of Traditional Concrete

Concrete is the most widely used construction material globally. However, its production can be energy-intensive and generate a significant amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) if produced without sustainability in mind. 

The cement industry - a primary fixture within concrete production - is responsible for approximately 8% of global CO₂ emissions. This has prompted the ready-mix concrete industry to seek more sustainable practices to decrease its carbon footprint.




Five Sustainable Practices in Ready Mix Concrete

  1. Use of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs): SCMs, such as fly ash, slag, and silica fume, can partially replace Portland cement in concrete mixtures. This not only reduces the carbon footprint but also enhances the durability and performance of the concrete.

  2. Recycled Aggregates: Incorporating recycled aggregates from demolished structures into new concrete mixes helps reduce the need for virgin materials and minimizes waste sent to landfills. This practice supports the circular economy by reusing materials that would otherwise be discarded.

  3. Water Management: The ready-mix concrete industry is adopting advanced water recycling systems to reduce freshwater consumption. By capturing and reusing water from concrete production, companies can significantly lower their water usage and reduce the strain on local water resources.

  4. Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices in concrete production facilities can lead to substantial reductions in energy consumption. This includes optimizing plant operations, using renewable energy sources, and improving the efficiency of mixing equipment.

  5. Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU): Emerging technologies are enabling the capture of CO₂ emissions from cement production and their incorporation into concrete. This not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also enhances the strength and durability of the concrete.


Innovations Driving Sustainability in Ready Mix Concrete

  1. Green Concrete: Formulated with lower carbon footprints, green concrete uses alternative materials and innovative production methods. Examples include geopolymer concrete, which uses industrial waste products as a binder instead of Portland cement, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.

  2. Self-Healing Concrete: This innovative type of concrete can repair its own cracks, extending its lifespan and reducing the need for repairs and replacements. This not only conserves resources but also minimizes the environmental impact of maintenance activities.

  3. Lightweight Concrete: By using lightweight aggregates and additives, this type of concrete reduces the overall weight of structures, leading to lower material usage and transportation emissions.


Several MK1 patented designs involving recycled materials like crushed glass and fly ash are currently being used on underground and fiber optic projects in Texas. Not only is MK1 technology being utilized across Texas, but due to its benefits MK1 has been utilized throughout the United States. It’s one of many ways that MK1 is leading with environmental centric best practices.




Sustainability in the ready-mix concrete industry is not just a trend but a necessary evolution to address the environmental challenges of our time. Through innovative materials, efficient practices, and collaborative efforts, the industry is making significant strides toward reducing its carbon footprint and building a more sustainable future. By embracing these industry-shifting advancements, we can ensure that concrete continues to be a foundational material for modern infrastructure while minimizing its impact on the future of our planet.



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