At 12 gigatons of emissions, 20 percent of the global total, the things we manufacture place a heavy burden on our atmosphere.
Even if we succeed in decarbonizing our grids and electrifying transportation, we will still need to cut greenhouse gases from steel, cement, and other industrial materials. Some of those emissions derive from fossil fuels used for the heat to make these commodities. Others are released by chemical reactions in the manufacturing process.
One strategy in our industrial playbook is simply to use less–through greater efficiency, revised building codes, and education for architects and builders. Structures designed with less concrete or steel add less carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.
Reaching our net zero targets for this sector will require innovation to make cleaner technologies affordable. For governments and businesses ready to fund a net zero future, advance purchasing commitments can help materials technology startups raise capital and scale, thereby driving down costs.