Ultra-high-performance concrete for Sustainable Development Goals: A systematic review and conceptual framework

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) sits at the center of a sustainability paradox: its dense microstructure and high binder content increase initial impacts, but its strength and durability can reduce material use, extend service life, and lower maintenance. This systematic evidence-based review of UHPC research from 2021 to 2025 evaluates how cleaner UHPC technologies support low-carbon, resource-efficient infrastructure. Using a Scopus-indexed database and a PRISMA-informed screening protocol, 70 journal articles were selected and coded for mechanisms, indicators, and SDG linkages. This review focuses on three areas: (i) low-clinker and waste-based UHPC; (ii) durability, service life, and resilience in aggressive and seismic environments; and (iii) life-cycle assessment (LCA), circular-economy strategies, and digitalization. The findings show that UHPC’s sustainability relies more on functional performance, geometry-driven savings, and avoiding repairs than on volume comparisons. LCAs of UHPC demonstrate that low-clinker binders, reduced reinforcement, and longer service lives can significantly reduce life-cycle impacts when used strategically. Building on these findings, the review proposes an SDG-linked mechanism-indicator framework, a circular UHPC pathway, and a decision flowchart that position UHPC as a performance-enabled material for resilient, low-carbon infrastructure. • Maps 2021–2025 UHPC evidence to cleaner, low-carbon material strategies. • Identifies low-clinker and waste-based binders as key levers for cleaner UHPC. • Shows when dematerialization and long service life lower whole-life impacts. • Outlines circular pathways including UHPC recycling and recycled constituents. • Proposes SDG-linked decision flowchart for responsible UHPC deployment.