Electrification in Europe is not only essential for achieving net-zero emissions but also for driving efficiency and productivity across various sectors. By 2030, nearly two-thirds of emissions reduction in the European Union is projected to be accomplished through energy efficiency and electrification initiatives. The trend of electrification in Europe goes beyond personal vehicles, encompassing crucial sectors like lithium battery production and the electric grid. Lithium battery production is vital for powering electric vehicles and storing renewable energy. Upgrading the electric grid is essential for optimising energy distribution and improving reliability.
How we are responding
Lime plays a crucial role in the production and recycling of lithium-ion batteries, essential for powering electric vehicles and storing renewable energy. Limestone-derived products are integral in infrastructure projects related to electric grid upgrades, enabling the efficient distribution and utilisation of electricity.
Applications:
Lithium batteries production, Lithium batteries recycling, Electricity grid upgrades
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According to a report by Bloomberg NEF, electric vehicle sales in Europe are expected to reach 5.4 million units in 2025 and 12 million units in 2030, representing a significant increase from current levels.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has announced plans to invest €7.5 billion in electricity network upgrades and smart grid projects across the EU as part of the European Commission's Clean Energy for All Europeans package.
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The mega trend of environmental protection in Europe is gaining momentum, with innovative applications emerging to safeguard crucial ecosystems and combat pollution. Efforts such as ocean and lake liming are being explored to restore acidity balance and promote marine biodiversity. Additionally, initiatives like Air Pollution Control Residues cleaning tackle industrial waste, ensuring cleaner air and waterways. Shipping emissions, a significant contributor to pollution, are being addressed through regulations and advancements in green technology. Moreover, the concept of direct air capture is gaining traction, offering a promising solution to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. As Europe prioritises environmental stewardship, these diverse approaches underscore the region's commitment to preserving natural resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
How we are responding
The decarbonisation of the construction industry In ocean and lake liming, limestone is used to neutralise acidity and restore pH balance, thereby enhancing water quality and fostering the growth of aquatic life. Air Pollution Control Residues cleaning often involves the use of lime to treat industrial waste, neutralising harmful pollutants and reducing environmental impact. Lime is also employed in shipping emissions control, where it serves as an absorbent for sulphur dioxide emissions, mitigating air pollution from maritime activities. Furthermore, in the emerging field of direct air capture, lime-based sorbents are being explored as a means of capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, aiding in climate change mitigation efforts.
Key statistics
General government expenditure in the EU on environmental protection amounted to €130 billion in 2022.
Applications:
Ocean liming, Lake liming, Direct air capture, Air pollution control residues cleaning, Shipping emissions (flue gas)
General government expenditure in the EU on environmental protection amounted to €130 billion in 2022.
Multiple countries across Europe have embraced ambitious goals and comprehensive strategies to transition towards low-carbon and sustainable pathways. Spearheading this movement, the European Commission launched the EU Green Deal in 2019, committing the bloc to achieving climate neutrality by 2050. This initiative sets out a roadmap for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy efficiency and fostering green innovation across all sectors of the economy. The transition to a net-zero economy in Europe is projected to require substantial investment, with estimates suggesting that approximately €350 trillion will be needed in cumulative spending on physical assets globally over the next three decades, with a significant portion allocated within the next 10-15 years. This translates to an annual spending of €11.7 trillion, indicating a surge in demand for sustainable solutions across various industries as part of Europe's ambitious decarbonisation efforts.
How we are responding
The decarbonisation of the construction industry in Europe stands as a pivotal mega trend in the global sustainability transition, with lime and limestone emerging as crucial resources. These versatile materials play an important role in various eco-friendly applications, notably as substitute cementitious materials, where they significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with traditional cement production. Moreover, innovations such as hemp lime for building materials showcase the potential of integrating sustainable practices into construction, offering both insulation properties and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, the incorporation of hydrated lime into asphalt mixes not only enhances durability and performance but also contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of transportation infrastructure. As the industry continues to embrace new building materials and techniques, lime and limestone stand at the forefront of facilitating a greener, more sustainable future for construction in Europe and beyond.
Key statistics
The European Union's Renovation Wave Strategy aims to double the annual renovation rate of buildings by 2030, with a focus on improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
Applications:
Subsitute cementitious materials, Port sludge stabilization, Hemp lime for building materials, Asphalt mix with hydrated lime, New house building materials
The European Union's Renovation Wave Strategy aims to double the annual renovation rate of buildings by 2030, with a focus on improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
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