We support the development of sustainable concrete technology
The announcement was made when Håkon Haugli joined Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on a visit to Mapei for the launch of the new research centre, which will focus on sustainable concrete technology.
'Norway has the potential to become a world leader in sustainable concrete for wet and cold climates. The planned research centre will build expertise in concrete, particularly for wet and cold climates, as well as develop solutions that will significantly reduce CO2 emissions. This is important,' says our CEO, Håkon Haugli.
'Through innovation, knowledge and collaboration, Mapei in Nord-Odal will create sustainable solutions that are vital to the green transition. Mapei shows that Norwegian entrepreneurs and skilled employees deliver impressive results that make a real difference to the climate, the local community, Norway and the rest of the world,' says Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
Mapei AS is the Nordic and Baltic headquarters, with around 200 employees, and is a subsidiary of the Italian company Mapei Spa, a global leader in cement and concrete technology. The group has one of the world's most advanced concrete technology research laboratories at its headquarters in Milan. The research centre in Nord-Odal will serve as Mapei's international hub for developing circular and sustainable solutions.
Aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions
Cement production requires significant amounts of energy and is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Concrete production alone accounts for 7–9% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This project is expected to reduce emissions by more than 450,000 tonnes of CO2, equivalent to around 7% of the emissions reductions planned for Norway's mainland industry by 2030.
'Our ambition is to develop the world's most sustainable concrete. We are grateful for the support, which will enable us to test and implement solutions for producing high-quality concrete with more than 50 per cent lower CO2 emissions. We hope to develop new products that can extend the lifespan of buildings and other infrastructure by 10–50 years,' says Trond Hagerud, CEO of Mapei AS.
The technology developed at the new centre in Nord-Odal will eventually be rolled out internationally.
'Mapei's ambitions for this initiative extend far beyond Norway's borders. We already have extensive expertise in cement and concrete, and a centre like this will also attract international expertise,' says Hagerud.
Important for regional development
The planned research projects that we are now supporting will play an important role in helping this cornerstone company strengthen skilled jobs in Nord-Odal.
'Mapei's project meets all our criteria for awarding funding. This kind of innovation in the industry is important for significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while also creating more highly skilled jobs and boosting exports. It could have major positive ripple effects across the region,' says Sverre Bjørnstad, EVP for Innovation Norway Innlandet.
The total project cost is NOK 126.8 million. This includes a dedicated building costing NOK 24.3 million. We are providing Mapei with financing in the form of an environmental technology grant of up to NOK 13.1 million and a regional business development grant of up to NOK 12.5 million.