Sources: National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, Alexandria, Va.; CP staff
An exclusive focus on ready mixed concrete under the Environmental Protection Agency-administered Energy Star program will provide producers resources to enhance energy efficiency, cut costs and strengthen sustainability metrics. The effort stands to emulate a well established cement industry template, where producers and program officials set annual power and fuel consumption benchmarks for plant operations.
The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association is assisting the launch and will contribute to a February 19, 2 p.m. EST stakeholder call with Energy Star officials. Hosts will inform producers how the program can be leveraged to boost their companies’ reputation; improve sustainability data collection; and, reduce production costs by streamlining power and fuel consumption. Subsequently, Energy Star program participants will be introduced to a new ready mixed concrete plant-specific energy performance indicator tool, connect with strategic energy advisors and, through an industry forum, connect with energy managers to discuss proven efficiency and resource conservation strategies.
Producers interested in joining the Energy Star call can forward a request for invitation to [email protected]. Additional background on engagement with EPA and other sustainability-minded policymakers can be obtained from NRMCA Director, Sustainability Codes and Standards Tiffany Reed-Villarreal, P.E., [email protected].
Energy Star is public-private endeavor. The focus on ready mixed builds on the work of NRMCA and allied partners enlisted thus far, including Arizona Rock Products Association, CalPortland Co. Cemex USA, Holcim North America, Knife River Corp., Kuhlman Corp., Stoneway Concrete, S.T. Wooten Corp. and Titan America.