Today's Edition
ISIDORA CIRIC (DUBAI)
Bton is pioneering a new type of concrete that is not only significantly reducing CO₂ emissions but also acting as a carbon sink, making it a climate-positive solution. In a recent interview with Aletihad, UAE resident Thomas Demmel, CEO of Bton, shared insights into an innovative approach to decarbonising the construction industry.
The global construction industry has long been a significant contributor to carbon emissions, with cement, a primary ingredient in concrete, being a major culprit, according to Demmel, who noted that a large portion of the CO₂ emissions come from cement. Recognising this, Bton has developed a method to use different types of cement that conform to international standards while drastically cutting emissions.
“We will not only reduce the CO₂ in our product to let’s say, 25%, we even can go beyond and sink carbon into the concrete. So on a cradle to cradle basis, we actually are carbon negative, or how we put it - climate positive,” Demmel explained.
This revolutionary approach is crucial, as concrete or cement contributes to 8-12% of global emissions. By transforming concrete from a problem into a solution, Bton’s technology effectively operates like a tree, sequestering CO₂ and thereby reducing the overall carbon burden, the CEO stressed.
Bton’s innovation doesn’t stop with carbon reduction. Their concrete is also lighter by up to 40% while maintaining the same compressive strength. This feature is particularly beneficial in regions prone to earthquakes, as lighter materials usually do not get damaged as much.
“A lighter construction is much more earthquake-resistant,” Demmel noted, highlighting the additional safety benefits of their product. Furthermore, Bton’s technology allows for the use of different materials, such as desert sand. This is significant, considering the scarcity and environmental impact of extracting conventional construction sand, which is also one of the most smuggled construction materials in the world.
“With the use of desert sand, you get totally sustainable in your region,” Demmel added. The UAE, known for its forward-thinking approach to technology and sustainability, has been a focal point for Bton. Demmel noted that this was not his first COP event, but it is the most notable, as it showcases a heightened emphasis on actionable climate solutions.
“I’m very happy how COP28 is taking off because it’s really focusing on action,” Demmel expressed.
“I think what, what under the leadership of the UAE and the president of COP has been achieved as additional focus on technology and how to solve the real underlying issue. I mean, the pledge of $100 million for the Loss and Damage Fund is great, it’s significant and generous,” he added.
The CEO expressed excitement about being able to present the company in the UAE, praising the country’s leadership for its ability to innovate and foster a prosperous and conducive business environment.
“The UAE is a place where the smart leadership really gathered talent. The country has a lot of innovation power - the innovation scheme is really pushed and supported by the government,” Demmel stressed. Bton has been active in the Middle East and is now experiencing a warm reception in the UAE, Demmel said, noting that he is excited to give hope to people that the “massive” problems our planet faces with CO₂ can be solved with smart technology.
“We have been approached by many that want to explore the opportunity that are super open-minded,” Demmel shared, indicating potential collaborations in the region.
Looking to the future, Bton is set to partner with the industry, with its concrete finding its way into construction in various countries. “We want to make a difference but still be serviceable, working with the local partners and help the development industry to change the construction industry,” Demmel envisioned.
The company’s name, Bton, is a play on the German word for concrete, “beton”, with the “E” removed, symbolising the elimination of emissions. “The E is missing, we have taken out the E, which stands for emissions. So, I think that that says more or less everything,” Demmel remarked.
