Bridgeman Concrete’s adoption of Verifi digital technology and Bullocks Group’s Eco-Max initiative are among the standout examples of how the concrete industry is cutting emissions as it accelerates towards a net-zero future.
The two companies feature in Concrete NZ’s 2024 Sustainability Report, which tracks the sector’s progress toward a 44% reduction in direct and electricity-related CO2 emissions by 2030 and net-zero carbon by 2050.
Concrete NZ sustainability and policy director Tim Kleier says the industry is making tangible changes.
“Across the country, Concrete NZ’s members are modernising their operations, from upgrading batching infrastructure and optimising material inputs, to deploying electric vehicles and embracing digital technology for real-time quality control,” he says.
A standout has been the rapid uptake of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) – lower-carbon alternatives such as granulated blast-furnace slag or fly ash.
“SCMs now account for 6.6% of all binders used in ready mixed concrete, more than four times the 2020 baseline share. With SCM infrastructure now in place to support the 2030 Roadmap target, the sector is well on its way to delivering tangible emissions reductions,” Kleier said.
The 2024 report draws on contributions from producers representing around 80% of ready mixed concrete volumes, with strong participation from precast, masonry, and reinforcing processors. Kleier says this improved coverage is giving government, specifiers and the public a clearer view of the industry’s direction.
Each edition of the report spotlights a theme. After focusing on SCM development in earlier years, the latest report shifts attention to production and delivery efficiency.
“The results confirm that sustainability and performance can go hand-in-hand, delivering lower-carbon outcomes without compromising durability, strength, or cost-efficiency,” Kleier says.
The report highlights several case studies:
- Bridgeman Concrete and Verifi – By adopting digital technology to automate and optimise delivery, Bridgeman has improved efficiency and cut emissions across operations, showing how smarter systems in the delivery cycle can achieve meaningful carbon reductions.
- Bullocks Group and Eco-Max Concrete – A multi-pronged approach combining solar generation, electric loaders, and circular practices in water and recycled aggregates. In partnership with HR Cement, the firm has introduced Eco-Cem cement into Eco-Max concrete, cutting about 90kg CO2-e per cubic metre at a 40% blend, without compromising strength or finish quality.
- Kayasand Engineered Sand – A quarry by-product transformed into high-performance engineered sand, reducing reliance on natural sand.
“These examples demonstrate how local companies are embracing technology and innovation to reduce emissions, strengthen resilience, and support the shift towards a circular economy,” Kleier says.
Looking ahead
The report also points to the next stage of the industry’s journey: the Transformation to a Low Carbon Concrete Industry project, due in early 2026. It will provide a detailed blueprint for accelerating progress toward the 2050 net-zero goal.
Concrete NZ chief executive Rob Gaimster says collaboration is driving real change.
“We are now tracking progress with more confidence than ever before, thanks to the commitment of our members.
“The breadth of data and innovation highlighted in this report demonstrates a real industry-wide determination to reduce emissions while continuing to deliver the durable, resilient concrete that New Zealand needs,” Gaimster says.
