As part of a project submitted to the Klik Foundation and supported by GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), the consulting team from Grupo Sofonías and the EcoSur Network is carrying out a comprehensive feasibility study for the implementation of LC3 (Limestone Calcined Clay Cement) in Uruguay.
A Comprehensive Study to Transform Uruguay’s Cement Sector
This pioneering study addresses several key dimensions of the Uruguayan cement industry:
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A detailed market analysis, including supply and demand dynamics and mapping of key stakeholders.
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An assessment of the regulatory framework for the production and adoption of low-carbon cements.
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A technical evaluation of locally available clays for calcination and their suitability for LC3 production.
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Preliminary plant design for LC3 implementation in two local cement companies, with detailed CAPEX and OPEX estimates.
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Application of the ACM0005 carbon methodology to assess the potential for greenhouse gas reductions and explore monetization through carbon markets.
In Uruguay, where the cement industry accounts for approximately 40% of total industrial CO₂ emissions, LC3 presents a promising opportunity to reduce those emissions by up to 20%, using locally sourced materials and proven low-carbon technology.
This study lays the groundwork for collaboration with the Uruguayan cement sector and opens the door to knowledge transfer and innovation through practical projects and product development using calcined clays.
We extend our sincere thanks to all stakeholders involved in this initiative, including the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mining (MIEM), the National Directorate for the Environment (DINAMA) under the Ministry of Environment, the Uruguayan Institute of Technical Standards (UNIT), LATU Foundation (Latitud), the Catholic University of Uruguay, the Department of Materials and Mining Engineering at the Faculty of Engineering, the Faculty of Engineering at the University of the Republic, CIMSA, Cementos Artigas, the Chamber of Construction of Uruguay, construction companies, the Ministry of Transport and Public Works, and various industry associations across the construction sector.
Scaling Up: Similar Efforts Underway in Senegal
In parallel, our team is conducting a similar LC3 feasibility study in Senegal, focused on adapting the technology to local conditions, identifying suitable clay deposits, and working closely with cement producers and stakeholders to assess the viability and climate benefits of LC3 in the West African context.
We are excited to continue expanding our consultancy services and contributing to the global transition to low-carbon construction materials throughout 2025 and beyond.