The volume-weighted average embodied carbon of UK ready-mixed concrete fell by approximately five per cent in 2025, according to the latest Low Carbon Concrete Group Market Benchmark.

The average declined from 242kgCO2e/m3 in 2024 to 229kgCO2e/m3 in 2025. Greater use of Portland-limestone cement following the 2023 revision to BS 8500 was identified as the principal contributor.

Published by The Concrete Centre on behalf of the group, the 2026 benchmark draws on data covering approximately 55 per cent of UK ready-mixed concrete production in 2025.

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It measures normal-weight concrete across lifecycle stages A1–A3, covering raw materials, transport and production to the batching-plant gate. The figures indicate a reduction in embodied carbon per cubic metre, rather than a fall in total industry emissions.