Sustainability surfaces as theme of TACA meeting

The Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association (TACA) hosted its Environmental & Safety Seminar in San Antonio.

Industry professionals delivered presentations on managing environmental and safety regulations and other issues facing TACA members. One conference session – “Responsible Sourcing: Pathway to Sustainable Manufacturing” – explored how the world will double its building stock by 2060, demanding responsible sourcing, carbon neutrality and a circular economy to fulfill societal needs.

“Today, to stay competitive with other building materials, the cement and concrete industries must continue to embrace the language of measuring and demonstrating carbon neutrality,” says Lionel Lemay, executive vice president of structures and sustainability at the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association.

Lemay outlined federal, state and local “buy clean” initiatives, including General Services Administration standards that became effective in March 2022. The standards factor in social and environmental considerations when choosing suppliers.

“The technology has caught up, and we are able to collect more easily the environmental information that customers are now demanding,” Lemay says. “Using these certifications, measurements and data enable you to better compete as you demonstrate that you are environmentally responsible for the materials you are providing.”

Josh Leftwich, TACA president and CEO, agrees.

“Today, responsible sourcing, circularity and carbon analysis are tools the aggregate, concrete and cement industries are embracing,” he says. “Not only to adhere to regulations, but also to earn certifications that put them ahead of the competition when providing the building materials the state demands to satisfy its tremendous growth.”