Joint position – Trilogues on ESPR and CPR, statement on ‘cement backstop clause’
European cements are among the most carbon intensive in the world, without clear signs of improvement. This is concerning, as cement – together with concrete – is and will remain the most consumed material in Europe. As the Alliance for Low-Carbon Cement and Concrete (ALCCC), we are committed to bring European cements within planetary boundaries, targeting a net zero value chain by 2040.
The parallel revision of the CPR and ESPR showed that different views exist on what legal framework is best placed to deliver upon ecodesign requirements for cement. As ALCCC, we are committed to a rapid implementation of ambitious ecodesign requirements on cement, regardless of the underlying policy framework. At a time when many regions and countries are stepping up their game on cement, Europe must follow.
Therefore, we call upon negotiators to explicitly recognise and support the ‘backstop clause on cement’ – as outlined in the official position of the European Parliament on the ESPR (art. 16) in both files.