Utilization of Green Material for Concrete in Construction

Abstract

In this modern technological era today, green materials are highly regarded as one of the most important elements when designing and conducting an environmentally sustainable construction project. The cement that is utilized in conventional concrete today is one of the culprits for the high levels of carbon dioxide generated, which is damaging to the environment. Many researchers have shown and suggested that cement substitution is a favorite technique for minimizing the generation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as well as substituting unused raw materials with concrete. The concept of green concrete promotes sustainable development as it utilizes the least natural resources during production and mainly depends on recyclable waste materials as its main raw material. This paper displays the various designs of green concrete in developed countries by partially replacing cement with recyclable materials such as fly ash, demolished waste from construction sites, electronic waste, carpet fiber waste, palm oil fuel ash, and others. Green concrete endorses the innovative and sustainable use of waste aggregate and unconventional alternative materials to substitute cement within concrete. It is crucial to adopt the use of green concrete, especially in developed countries, as they have the capacity and financial strength to ensure adequate training, public awareness, further research and demonstration projects, as well as suitable standards to be applied to endorse the global application of green concrete in infrastructure projects.