Revolutionary Green Cement Sculpture Sparks Hope for Sustainability
A striking sculpture unveiled by Canadian artist and architect Umemoto is catching the attention of environmental advocates and sustainability enthusiasts worldwide. Comprised of bricks made from ultra-low carbon cement, the piece is not just a work of art but a powerful symbol of the future of construction and a call for change. The sculpture was created using cement produced by Cemvision, a Swedish manufacturer that has pioneered a unique, eco-friendly approach to cement production.
Unlike traditional cement, which relies on virgin limestone, Cemvision’s process repurposes industrial waste materials—such as slag from steel production and by-products from mining. The production is also electrified, eliminating fossil fuels from the process. As a result, Cemvision’s green cement reduces CO2 emissions by up to 95%, an impressive feat given that cement production contributes roughly 8% of global CO2 emissions. Max Larsson von Reybekiel, Cemvision’s Chief Marketing Officer, views the sculpture as much more than an art installation. He sees it as a “rallying cry for change” in the construction industry, where the transition to greener materials often faces hesitation from industry players, legislators, and standard committees.
“The main competitor isn’t other companies; it’s doubt,” says Reybekiel, emphasizing that tangible examples like the sculpture are essential to overcoming skepticism about green cement’s scalability. The sculpture, which stands proudly at Norrsken House in Stockholm—a hub for innovation and social impact—is positioned to inspire thousands of visitors, from impact entrepreneurs to thought leaders, who pass through the space every year. Reybekiel believes it is the perfect location to showcase the potential of green cement and the future of sustainable construction.
Umemoto, who collaborated with Cemvision on this project, expressed enthusiasm about working with the material. “I was curious to see if it would feel and behave like traditional cement, which it did,” said the artist. “Learning about the scalability of green cement gave me hope. I don’t have to give up on concrete just yet.” This collaboration highlights how art and innovation can come together to challenge traditional practices and foster a broader movement toward sustainability. Green cement, according to Cemvision, can replace traditional cement in many construction applications on a commercial scale, signaling a promising shift toward a more sustainable future in building materials.
