The Race for Alternative Fuels

Sustainable energy is a major concern in many industries around the world today.  Companies are trying to develop new ways to make their products and methods of operation more efficient and eco-friendly.  For companies that rely heavily on the combustion of oil and other fossil fuels, this concern for energy has manifested itself into the research of solar, wind, and hydro-electric power.

Unfortunately for manufacturers based in the United States, most of the research into alternative fuels is being conducted overseas in countries like Germany, China, and Spain.  All of these nations have adopted aggressive government policies and incentives aimed at stimulating the growth of cleantech businesses.  The US has fallen behind in government reform despite President Obama’s stimulus package giving $80 billion for renewable energy, but it is not enough.

The cement industry, however, has taken positive steps towards reducing its carbon footprint and sustaining green energy.  Many plants are now using industrial waste, such as discarded tires, as the fuel source for firing their kilns for up to 70% of their energy demands.  Resulting in lower emissions and preserving fossil fuels for future generations, the cement industry is still on the lookout for more efficient, greener methods of creating concrete products.

If the trend in American cleantech industry continues, though, American cement firms may find themselves at the mercy of foreign energy producers such as China.  If the US takes a backseat in clean energy production and research, we will no longer be dependent on the Middle East for oil; but we will be indebted to Europe and Asia for our energy needs.  As production and consumer costs rise, customers will leave American cement producers for cheaper foreign producers.  The American cement industry needs to take a stand for sustainable, green energy and lead the way for the US to become a leader in the global energy market.