Holcim cuts carbon by nearly half at Essex housing scheme
Holcim UK has supplied over 3,000 m³ of low-carbon ECOPact concrete to a 113-home residential scheme in Essex, cutting embodied carbon by up to 48%.
The Thornwood housing development, led by sustainable housebuilder GS8, set out to reduce the environmental impact of its foundations and structure. Holcim was engaged from the concept stage to evaluate material options and provide transparent carbon data.
An FND2 ECOPact CIIIA mix was initially used, achieving a 28% reduction compared with a traditional CEM I equivalent. Holcim then introduced a new ECOPact CEM VI mix, which uses limestone filler and ground granulated clinker substitutes in line with BS8500:2023. This achieved an embodied carbon saving of 48%.
Holcim adapted its local Harlow plant to make the mix available, allocating silo space just five miles from the site. All concrete supplied was backed by Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), giving GS8 evidence-based data to support its sustainability goals.
The project involved collaboration between GS8, Holcim, sustainability consultant KLH Sustainability and structural engineer BW Murray. The approach is being seen as a model for future housing developments aiming to lower their material carbon footprint.
“By working with partners from the outset, we can ensure carbon savings are real, measurable and auditable,” said a Holcim spokesperson.
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