Tarmac Sustainability Report

Tarmac Open Innovation Pipeline – join us on the road to Net Zero

April 3, 2025

By James Green, Senior Procurement Manager at Tarmac.

At Tarmac, sustainability isn’t just a goal, it’s a responsibility. As we work towards achieving Net Zero, innovation will be key to unlocking the solutions needed for a more sustainable built environment. That’s why we’re seeking emerging technologies and forward-thinking companies to collaborate with us on this journey through the Tarmac Open Innovation Pipeline.

The challenges we’re tackling

To create a low-carbon, resource-efficient, and resilient future, we are focused on three key areas of innovation.

The first is decarbonisation.

As part of our commitment to being a Net Zero business by 2050, we are accelerating existing efforts while pioneering new low carbon technologies. We are exploring alternative fuels, carbon capture, and innovative low-carbon materials that can reduce emissions across our supply chain and create more sustainable infrastructure. Improving energy efficient production processes is another priority, helping to minimise our environmental footprint while supporting the wider industry’s transition to Net Zero. The road ahead is challenging, but it presents a huge opportunity to redefine the future of construction.

Another key focus is circularity.

Sustainability isn’t just about cutting emissions, it’s also about how we use resources. At Tarmac, we are leading the way in the circular economy by turning waste into opportunity. By repurposing industrial by-products and alternative materials in our processes, we can reduce waste across the entire life cycle of construction materials. Our focus is on finding new ways to improve while developing closed-loop systems that maximise resource efficiency. We have always collaborated with industry partners to drive material efficiency, and we believe innovation will help take circularity in construction to the next level.

Water management is another critical global challenge, and we are committed to playing our part.

From optimising water use in our operations, to developing climate resilient infrastructure, we are embedding sustainable water management into everything we do. We are looking for solutions that improve water conservation and recycling, enhance the resilience of cities and communities against flooding and coastal erosion, and support the development of efficient water treatment and distribution systems. By harnessing innovation, we can help protect vital water resources while ensuring the built environment is prepared for the challenges of a changing climate.

Why get involved?

For businesses and innovators with game-changing ideas, this is a unique opportunity to test, refine, and scale solutions in a real-world setting. Successful participants will gain access to a paid pilot programme, dedicated operational support, and the potential to scale solutions across CRH’s global network, unlocking new markets and growth opportunities.

Be part of the future of circular construction

Collaboration is key to progress. If you have an idea that could help accelerate decarbonisation, circularity, or water resilience, we want to hear from you. By working together, we can drive real change and build a more sustainable, Net Zero future that benefits businesses, communities, and the planet.

Want to be part of the change? Submit your ideas to the Tarmac Open Innovation Pipeline, here.