Environmental and Public Health Challenges of Phases Towards Cement Production, Remediation Monitoring and Evaluation Strategies

Abstract

Communication in Physical Sciences, 2024, 12(1): 103-119

Authors: Mu’awiya Baba Aminu, Hareyani Zabidi, Juliet Ngozi Chijioke-Churuba, Saleh Mamman Abdullahi, Kolapo Fasina, Aliyu Abubakar , Muhammad Nurudeen Mashin, Abdulmalik Nana Fatima, Bertha Onyenachi Akagbue, Olusola Kolawole Ogunmilua

Received: 21 October 2024/ Accepted 18 November 2024

Cement production plays a pivotal  role in global construction, contributing

significantly to economic development. However, the industry is also a major source of  environmental pollution, responsible for approximately 8% of global CO₂ emissions, alongside substantial impacts on air quality,

water resources, and biodiversity. This review examines the environmental impacts of cement production across three key phases: construction, operational, and postoperational. The construction phase is marked

by land degradation, habitat destruction, and dust emissions, while the operational phase results in issues such as high CO₂ emissions,

water contamination, solid waste generation, and high energy consumption. In the postoperational phase, issues related to biodiversity restoration and land reclamation persist. This review explores current strategies and technological innovations aimed at mitigating these impacts, such as carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS), lowcarbon cement alternatives, energy-efficient kilns, and the use of waste materials in production. Furthermore, the integration of circular economy principles and the adoption of digital monitoring systems are highlighted as promising solutions for reducing the

environmental footprint of cement production.

This review also underscores the need for sustainable practices and collaboration among stakeholders to address the environmental and public health challenges posed by the cement industry. The authors recommend the scaling up of innovative technologies, improved resource management, and stricter regulatory frameworks to achieve a more sustainable cement industry.