London, November 10, 2025 – The World Cement Association (WCA) has warned that cement prices in Europe could triple or even quadruple under current policy frameworks. The statement came during the European Cement Decarbonisation Summit 2025 held in Frankfurt, where the association called for a more balanced approach to sustainability and affordability.

Industry at a Crossroads Speaking at the summit, Emir Adiguzel, Director, WCA, highlighted the major challenges facing cement producers, including high energy costs, global overcapacity, and escalating carbon pricing. “Cement prices will triple if not quadruple with these policies in Europe,” he cautioned, noting that the burden of rising carbon-related costs will ultimately be borne by end consumers.

The WCA’s analysis revealed that the cement industry will require investments exceeding USD 200 billion by 2050 to achieve full decarbonisation. Between 2019 and 2023, global firms successfully reduced carbon intensity from 700 kg CO?/t to 640 kg CO?/t, showing measurable progress under supportive policies.

Technology and Investment Challenges While Adiguzel acknowledged that carbon capture projects “must continue if applied correctly,” he warned that current technologies are capital-intensive, often exceeding the cost of a new cement plant. He emphasised the need for scalable, cost-effective solutions that can drive real change.

The WCA identified four underutilised levers essential for low-carbon transformation:

Energy Efficiency: Waste heat recovery, AI-driven optimisation, and process control

Alternative Fuels: Greater adoption of biogenic fuels and higher thermal substitution rates

Reduced Clinker Factor: Wider use of LC3, natural pozzolans, and SCMs

New Technologies: Advancements in carbon capture, electrification, and heat storage

Balancing Policy and Industry Goals The WCA expressed concern that the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) may not effectively incentivise exporters outside the scheme to reduce emissions, given the heavy capital required for compliance.

“Cement is an irreplaceable material, vital for the infrastructure that underpins a green economy,” Adiguzel stated. “The path to decarbonisation must combine ambition with realism, encouraging collaboration between policymakers, producers, and technology innovators.”

He called for greater alignment between regulatory frameworks and industry needs to ensure that the transition to a low-carbon, low-clinker future remains both economically viable and environmentally responsible.