In this episode of the People’s Planet Podcast, hosts Marcel and Usman chat with Ansu, a leading concrete technologist. Ansu discusses the evolving role of concrete in sustainable construction, focusing on reducing its carbon footprint and the importance of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).

Ansu explains the role of alternative materials like slag and fly ash, and addresses the energy-intensive nature of concrete production. She also highlights how EPDs offer transparency in the industry and details the process of creating them.

The conversation includes the application of circular economy principles to concrete and Ansu’s upcoming course on the subject from Cambridge. She shares insights on alkali-activated concrete and calcined clay (metakaolin), and discusses her dual role in academia and industry.

The episode concludes with a look at the future of concrete technology and sustainability, with Ansu emphasising the need for continued research. Listeners are encouraged to consider sustainable practices and stay tuned for future episodes on creating a more sustainable planet.

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Hosts:

⁠Marcelle Batson-Warner⁠

⁠Simon Morris⁠

⁠Dr Usman Sikander⁠