The Challenge Lies in How We Use Certain Materials

Concrete can become a sustainable cornerstone for the future 

By Kevin Yuers

Concrete is both the foundation of urban history and the blueprint for its future. As the second-most-consumed substance on Earth after water, concrete plays a pivotal role in global infrastructure, with 30 billion tons currently used worldwide each year. This figure is double the consumption recorded in 2000, driven largely by surging demand for new infrastructure.

Made with rock, sand and cement, concrete is essential for constructing the arteries of modern life: highways, bridges, tunnels, mass transit systems, airports, runways, sidewalks, dams, spillways, reservoirs, drinking and wastewater infrastructure and countless commercial and residential buildings. Though its roots trace back to Ancient Rome, it remains indispensable to shaping the cities and communities of tomorrow.

However, this essential material traditionally comes with a significant environmental cost. Concrete production is responsible for approximately 8% of global carbon emissions and is a commonly held obstacle to achieving net-zero climate goals.

This raises a critical question: can a material with ancient origins that has a measurable impact on our climate crisis, transform to become a cornerstone of future infrastructure that is sustainable, resilient and equipped to withstand the challenges of a changing climate?Climate change has driven demand for stronger, more resilient concrete, which has historically faced significant challenges to its longevity and performance. These include salt damage affecting northern climates and the Florida coast, where salt exposure accelerates deterioration; corrosion; and Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR), a chemical reaction between alkalis in cement and certain siliceous aggregates leading to cracking and reduced durability.These issues decrease service levels, cause leaking structures and costly repairs. By rethinking how we design and build, we can transform infrastructure into a foundation for a resilient, sustainable future. The solution is a “three-legged stool”—a balanced approach that integrates innovative materials, advanced design techniques and sustainable building practices to create infrastructure that is both durable and eco-friendly.

Leg 1: Design

While there is value in drawing from past successes, it is essential to consider how environmental conditions may evolve over the next century. Service life is a critical factor in this equation.

Today, many architecture and engineering firms design infrastructure for a service life of 200 years. By adopting this forward-thinking approach, highways, tunnels, dams and ports could achieve a lifespan of 150 years or more. The benefits are clear: longer-lasting infrastructure means fewer repairs, reduced damage and significant cost savings over time. Designers must elevate sustainability and structural longevity by using the most advanced concrete waterproofing and durability solutions.

Leg 2: Quality Materials

Durability is key to sustainability, and using high-quality materials like concrete admixtures is central to this mission. Over the years, concrete admixtures have gained popularity for their ability to resist corrosion, reduce carbon emissions and enhance the performance of government-funded facilities. In the past, government agencies and property management companies might have prioritized short-term savings over long-term durability. That thinking is outdated. Smart builders are realizing that concrete admixtures can reduce the amount of cement needed and the time it takes to pour and harden. This reduces labor costs and construction timelines, thereby offering a financial incentive for a more sustainable, durable structure.

Kryton International’s municipal clients have faced significant leakage issues in their water systems. To resolve the problem, they utilized specialized concrete additives known as permeability-reducing admixtures (PRAs). These additives function as waterproofing agents, preventing water infiltration. If the system had been constructed with quality materials and proper design from the beginning, the issues could have been avoided

Leg 3: Skilled Workmanship

Durable construction requires skilled contractors, quality materials, and reliable manufacturers—a “three-legged stool” approach essential for long-lasting projects. Kryton International exemplifies this, offering technical support, training, and premium products to ensure proper application. Even the best materials fail without skilled workmanship. It is essential for anyone working with concrete to have proper training and high levels of support from their vendors.

Sustainable practices are vital for infrastructure to endure. Advances in concrete admixtures enable durable, eco-friendly solutions, replacing carbon-intensive methods. By combining innovative design, top-tier materials and skilled labor, we can create infrastructure that lasts and supports a sustainable future.

Kevin Yuers is Kryton International’s vice president for product development.