World’s first CO2-neutral concrete bridge opens

A groundbreaking footbridge in the Netherlands proves carbon-storing concrete can work in real infrastructure. The structure uses 75 percent circular raw materials and permanently sequesters 66kg of CO2.

A seven-metre footbridge in the Netherlands has become the world’s first built with CO2-neutral concrete that permanently sequesters carbon.

The Rosmalen project represents a collaboration between Paebbl, a Holcim subsidiary, and Dutch construction firm Heijmans, GCR reports.

The innovative concrete mix replaced 30 percent of traditional cement with Paebbl’s carbon-storing material.

The blend incorporates 75 percent circular raw materials, with recycled aggregates eliminating the need for virgin sand or gravel.

Biochar added to the mixture means the bridge deck has locked away 66 kilograms of CO2 permanently.

Developing the optimal concrete formulation required multiple attempts before achieving the right balance.

– The bridge demonstrates that carbon-storing materials aren’t limited to decorative or non-structural applications. They’re ready for infrastructure, says Ana Luisa Vaz, Paebbl’s vice-president of products.

Vaz confirmed the technology can be manufactured at industrial scale, with several pilot facilities already operational.

Construction of the first commercial production plant is currently in progress.