Solving for Climate Leah Ellis: How do you decarbonise concrete?
Sep 16, 2025
Leah Ellis, CEO of Sublime Systems, is at the forefront of decarbonizing cement production, which generates a staggering 8% of global CO2 emissions. She discusses her pioneering electrochemical method that aims to revolutionize cement manufacturing by eliminating reliance on fossil fuels. Leah emphasizes the importance of making these sustainable alternatives cost-competitive and accessible, particularly in developing nations. She also highlights the challenges and innovations emerging in the concrete industry, setting the stage for a greener future.
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Cement's Massive Carbon Footprint
- Cement production generates about 8% of global CO2, roughly one ton of CO2 per ton of cement produced.
- Emissions come from limestone decomposition and the fossil heat needed to reach ~1400°C.
Concrete's Global Scale And Climate Leverage
- Concrete is one of the most consumed man-made products at ~4 billion tons per year.
- Decarbonising cement is a high-leverage climate opportunity due to its scale.
Electrifying Cement Chemistry
- Sublime replaces high-temperature calcination with an electrochemical digestion of rocks at ambient temperature.
- The process generates acids and bases electrochemically to break down minerals into cementitious components.