The Portland Cement Association (PCA) announced the winners of the 2021 Energy and Environment Awards. These awards recognize outstanding environmental and also community relations efforts that go above and beyond what is required. Submissions for the 2021 Energy and Environment Awards from plants across the U.S. were both evaluated and recognized for environmental efforts completed in 2020.
“America’s cement manufacturers continue to focus on researching and developing new and innovative ways to reduce environmental footprint,” said PCA President and CEO Michael Ireland. “These accomplishments and industry commitment to carbon neutrality across the entire value chain demonstrate PCA members dedication to energy efficiency and a more sustainable future.”
The following plants were named 2021 E&E Award winners:
Energy Efficiency
CalPortland — Mojave, California
The CalPortland Mojave Cement Plant energy team has been active in modifying and upgrading their vertical roller mill (VRM). Intent on increasing the energy efficiency of the VRM, they performed a recent upgrade on the mill separator and the addition of a supervisory process control system. Additional testing led the team to address the potential of mill overflow and shutdown by adding additional modifications including a bottom hopper cone on each of the cyclones and a replacement of the mill fan housing.
Environmental Performance
Roanoke Cement Company/Titan America — Troutville, Virginia
In October 2020, Roanoke Cement Company (RCC) found a way to keep its environmental performance highlighted and fresh in the minds of their audience. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, RCC engineered a virtual tour. This included drone footage of the 2500-acre campus, of which only 100 acres is for cement production. The young execs in concrete leadership experienced remotely the harmony of cement production among RCC’s “green” features. Zero Waste efforts included a webinar presentation and also the achievement of TRUE Zero Gold status for documented results in landfill reduction, alternative fuel usage and other initiatives.
Land Stewardship
Argos USA — Calera, Alabama
Argos Cement USA’s Roberta Plant completed a voluntary land stewardship project in 2020. The plant converted a 21-acre lime kiln dust stockpile, with no intrinsic environmental value, into a vibrant grassland ecosystem. The area now has full vegetation with a select mix of plants to provide an ideal habitat for local wildlife. This includes the addition of multiple ponds to serve as wetland habitats and assist with stormwater management.
Outreach
CEMEX USA — Victorville, California
The Victorville Cement Plant’s educational programs reach more than a thousand students, educators and other guests annually. These outreaches include hands-on activities and workshops at the plant and quarry, and in the classroom. As the coronavirus began to spread across the U.S., CEMEX has sought opportunities to support communities during the pandemic. These opportunities included holding virtual educational events that benefited hundreds of educators and also students. Teachers and students were able to investigate the manufacturing of cement, aggregates, and ready-mix concrete, as well as learn directly from CEMEX employees about its sustainability efforts.
Overall Environmental Excellence
Titan America — Medley, Florida
Titan Florida achieved the ISO 50001 Certification in 2020 for Pennsuco (PNS) in Medley, FL, a unique standing among American cement manufacturers. Energy management excellence is a defining attribute for Titan Cement operations. The conversion from coal to natural gas and the introduction of processed engineered fuels as an alternative fuel source were some major PNS initiatives undertaken with a goal to reduce CO2 emissions. In 2020, both PNS and Titan set express policy establishing Environmental Social Governance targets for 2025 and beyond on its four pillars of strength: growth-enabling work environment, positive local impact, decarbonization and digitalization and responsible sourcing.
About Portland Cement Association
The Portland Cement Association (PCA) began in 1916. It is the premier policy, research, education, and market intelligence organization serving America’s cement manufacturers. PCA members represent over 90% of U.S. cement production capacity and also has facilities in all 50 states. The association promotes safety, sustainability, and innovation in all aspects of construction. It also fosters continuous improvement in cement manufacturing and distribution. Additionally, it generally promotes economic growth and sound infrastructure investment. For more information, visit www.cement.org.
