Setting Limits from Coast to Coast-US Buy Clean Policies to Decarbonize Concrete

Several authorities have implemented Buy Clean policies with different scopes, regulatory frameworks, and incentives for implementation. These policies measure the reduction of global warming potential of "eligible materials" using Environmental Product Declarations. Many programs also require agencies to implement a “limit” to the carbon dioxide emissions of industrial materials. By assessing the different programs with established emission limits and quantifying the reductions against the industry benchmarks, we can evaluate their impacts to a diverse group of stakeholders, not just those who manufacture concrete. Policy makers, manufacturers, architects and engineers must become aware of the limitations of the reporting tools to ensure the mandatory building requirements are still met. A clear understanding of how the policies are implemented offers insights to how the industry value chain can meet functional performance goals while maximizing the chances of successful carbon reduction of the built environment.