The Global Cement and Concrete Association ( GCCA ) has launched the Innovandi Open Challenge , a global programme which aims to unite tech start-ups and the cement industry to accelerate low-carbon technologies . Start-ups can pitch solutions to key industry challenges that require advanced technology , support , and investment and which will have a significant impact on the climate footprint . It is estimated the cement industry contributes 7 % of all CO2 emissions worldwide .

The challenge areas include carbon capture technologies , calcination technologies - for heating materials during the concrete manufacturing process - carbon use in the construction supply chain and improved concrete recycling . Dinah McLeod , GCCA Chief Executive said : “ Innovation will be crucial at every stage , from new cement and concrete chemistries to kiln technologies , clinker production , and carbon capture .

This Open Challenge will help ensure we are bringing the creativity of the best minds from outside the industry to tackle the climate emergency .”

� WINVIC CONSTRUCTION Winvic Construction has topped out its first hotel project , Hotel La Tour , at 50 metres in Milton Keynes . Winvic is currently fitting-out the 261 bedrooms , which includes the positioning of off-site fabricated bathroom pods .

� PRETRED The Colorado-based company , which produces industrial barriers from 95 % recycled materials , has announced $ 3 million seed investment led by HG Ventures , the corporate venture arm of The Heritage Group .

� PAUL JOHN CONSTRUCTION FRP Advisory has been appointed administrators for Paul John Construction , one of the largest firms in the UK midlands region .

� SIR ROBERT MCALPINE Leading firm posted loss before tax of £ 26.8m in 2020 compared to a profit of £ 14.5m in 2019 but predicts a “ robust return to profitability in the coming year ”.

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