Oil Sustainability Program Launches “NovusCrete” Consortium to Lead Innovation in Sustainable Concrete
Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Chairman of the Supervisory Committee of the Oil Sustainability Program (OSP) witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) by OSP to launch the NovusCrete Consortium, aimed at leading innovation in sustainable concrete.
The signing event was attended by PIF Governor, H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan; the Governor of the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization, Dr. Saad Al-Qasabi; and the President of the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, Eng. Khalid Al-Salem.
The consortium comprises several leading entities including PIF, the Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), NEOM (represented by the Design and Construction Sector), SIKA, and ClimateCrete. It aims to develop sustainable and innovative technologies in concrete production, focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of the construction sector and enhancing the environmental efficiency of the materials used.
The consortium marks a strategic milestone in fostering innovation and advancing sustainable development through the adoption of cutting-edge solutions designed to meet future demands. This initiative aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
The consortium focuses on creating new opportunities for the building and construction sector, the manufacturing sector and the Saudi value chain, and supporting the development of new technologies that can deliver sustainability and cost benefits. It seeks to accelerate technological advancements in sustainable concrete solutions, while prioritizing localization in the use of seawater, polymer-based materials, recycled construction and demolition waste, and fine sand. Through this collaboration, members aim to facilitate the adoption and expansion of seawater concrete applications, reinforced with glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) rebars and other sustainable materials in the building and construction sector.
NovusCrete Consortium, led by OSP, will aim to develop standards and codes on the use of seawater in concrete and promote sustainability in the building and construction sectors by recycling waste, extending infrastructure lifespan and reducing the environmental impact of the sectors.
The participating parties aim to empower the construction sector by focusing on environmental protection, driving innovation and supporting the local economy, an effort led by OSP.
The new consortium is supported by leading local and international entities, including the American Concrete Institute (ACI), which established Committee 243 – Seawater Concrete, responsible for developing reports, guidelines, standards and codes on the use of seawater in concrete.
