A world-first project has been launched to create a net zero future for the cement and lime industry. Located in England's Peak District, the project will prevent over 3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually by 2030.
Titled ‘Peak Cluster’, the initiative includes five cement and lime plants in the Peak District and Staffordshire Moorlands, owned by Tarmac, Breedon, Lhoist and Aggregate Industries, together with the Lostock Sustainable Energy Plant in Cheshire.
Carbon dioxide emitted from the cement and concrete industry accounts for around a quarter of the total emissions in Derbyshire and Staffordshire. With 40% of all UK cement and lime manufactured in the Peak District and local area, the project has the potential to dramatically reduce the sector’s emissions to ensure the sustainable, net zero future of this essential industry.
Cement is the main ingredient in concrete and, therefore, essential for the UK economy and the delivery of homes, schools, and hospitals, as well as clean water, sanitation and energy infrastructure.
Led by Progressive Energy, Peak Cluster aims to capture and transport carbon dioxide emissions from industrial plants in Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire before permanently locking away the carbon dioxide beneath the eastern Irish Sea in carbon storage facilities like the Liverpool Bay CCS or the recently announced MNZ Cluster.
John Egan of Progressive Energy, Peak Cluster project director, said: “Peak Cluster will make a crucial contribution towards the UK’s drive to net zero, making a serious impact on local, regional and national climate change targets. The project will help the industry to continue to thrive into the future – safeguarding jobs, maintaining a booming supply chain and allowing current and future generations to continue to work in, and enjoy, this beautiful region.”
