A team of engineers from UCLA has developed the ZeroCAL method, a revolutionary approach to cement production that aims to eliminate nearly all carbon dioxide emissions associated with the process. Traditional cement production results in a significant carbon footprint, emitting around 1 kilogram of carbon dioxide for every kilogram of cement produced. The ZeroCAL method uses calcium hydroxide instead of limestone to produce lime, addressing the major source of CO2 emissions in cement production. This innovative process could potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the cement industry, which currently accounts for about 8% of global atmospheric CO2 emissions. The researchers describe how ZeroCAL could be seamlessly integrated into existing cement-production processes, providing a more affordable and sustainable alternative to conventional methods. By removing 98% of CO2 emissions associated with lime production, the ZeroCAL approach not only tackles environmental concerns but also produces useful byproducts like hydrochloric acid and baking soda, along with oxygen and hydrogen gas. The generated hydrogen gas could serve as a clean-burning fuel to heat cement kilns, further enhancing the environmental benefits of the new method. While the current energy demand for ZeroCAL is higher than existing lime-production methods, ongoing research aims to achieve energy-use parity by optimizing process efficiency. The researchers are collaborating with Ultratech Cement Limited in India to establish a demonstration plant showcasing the ZeroCAL process. Moreover, the ZeroCAL solution could extend to decarbonizing steel production, offering a versatile approach to reducing carbon emissions across industries. Funded by various organizations, including the Chan-Zuckerberg Initiative and Shell, this groundbreaking research signifies a crucial step towards sustainable and eco-friendly industrial practices.