India has launched five Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) testbeds in the cement sector, forming the first innovation cluster to combat industrial carbon emissions. The Department of Science and Technology (DST) introduced this initiative to support the country’s climate goals and reduce emissions from carbon-intensive industries.

CCU technology can trap carbon dioxide from cement manufacturing and convert it into valuable products such as synthetic fuels, urea, soda, chemicals, food-grade CO2, and concrete aggregates. This initiative aligns with India’s National Determined Contributions targets and the government’s goal to achieve a carbon-neutral economy by 2070.

The DST has adopted a Public Private Partnership model, collaborating with leading cement companies and premier research institutions. These testbeds will foster continuous research and innovation to develop catalysts, materials, and technologies, reducing the cost of green cement production.

The grants were announced by the Union Minister of Science and Technology on National Technology Day. The testbeds are located across Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Goa, with the pilot site in Ballabgarh, Haryana.

Source:The Statesman