Cutting Carbon Without Compromise.
Altherm ICF reduces embodied carbon by >50%
The construction industry is responsible for nearly 40% of global CO₂ emissions, with concrete being one of the most significant contributors to embodied carbon—the emissions produced from materials, transportation, and construction processes before a building is even occupied.
With stricter climate targets and growing pressure on developers to adopt low-carbon solutions, the industry is searching for practical, scalable innovations that reduce carbon without sacrificing performance.
At Altherm ICF, we recognise this challenge and have developed a groundbreaking solution—new concrete mixes that cut embodied carbon by up to 54% while maintaining the structural durability, fire safety, and thermal performance that ICF is known for.
Breakthrough Research: Up to 54% Less Embodied Carbon Why Does Embodied Carbon Matter?
Although operational carbon—emissions from heating, cooling, and powering a buildinghas been tackled through stricter energy efficiency regulations, embodied carbon continues to pose a considerable challenge. Many traditional construction methods depend on highcarbon materials such as cement-rich concrete. Without action, embodied carbon could represent nearly 50% of a building’s total emissions by 2050.
The Altherm ICF Solution Our latest research demonstrates that innovative concrete formulations can significantly reduce carbon emissions while upholding high-performance building standards. Through thorough testing and real-world validation, we have developed three mix options:
54% Carbon Reduction Mix
The lowest-carbon option, thoroughly tested for strength and workability.
37% Carbon Reduction Mix
A mid-range alternative with robust structural integrity.
22% Carbon Reduction Mix
A practical compromise between carbon reduction and high strength performance.
These optimised concrete mixes challenge industry norms, where over-specification frequently results in unnecessary carbon emissions. We can achieve significant carbon reductions without compromising quality or efficiency by reassessing material requirements and utilising ICF’s inherent durability and insulation.
Beyond Embodied Carbon: The Comprehensive Environmental Benefits of ICF
While reducing embodied carbon is a significant step forward, ICF offers additional sustainability benefits that make it a leading choice for low-carbon construction:
1. Faster, More Efficient Construction
ICF is a Modern Method of Construction (MMC) that facilitates rapid on-site assembly, significantly reducing build times. Pre-formed insulation blocks are stacked and filled with concrete, resulting in a robust, insulated structure in a fraction of the time required by traditional methods. Quicker builds lead to reduced energy consumption on site, fewer delays, and less waste.
2. Superior Thermal Performance
A significant advantage of ICF is its built-in insulation, which delivers exceptional thermal efficiency. Unlike traditional construction, where gaps and thermal bridging can lead to heat loss, ICF creates a continuous thermal envelope, significantly improving a building’s energy performance.
The result? Lower heating and cooling costs, reduced operational carbon, and better energy ratings for homes and commercial buildings.
3. Strong, Safe, and Resilient Structures
Sustainability isn’t just about carbon—it’s about longevity. Altherm ICF buildings are:
• Highly durable and capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions.
• Fire-resistant, meeting the latest fire safety standards.
• Resilient to moisture and soundproof, ensuring greater comfort for occupants.
These factors enhance the longevity of buildings, minimising the need for repairs and further reducing the environmental footprint over time.
Scalability & Industry Impact
Given the urgent demand for housing solutions in Ireland and beyond, Altherm ICF is ready to deliver at scale. Our Irish manufacturing facility and network of approved installers can supply 3,500 homes each year, providing developers, contractors, and specifiers with a high-performance, low-carbon alternative.
Unlike emerging low-carbon technologies still in early development, ICF is a proven system that integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, making it a practical and scalable solution for the industry.
What’s Next? Driving the Future of Low-Carbon Construction
This research is just the beginning. As we continue to push the boundaries of low-carbon concrete technology, we invite architects, engineers, and developers to rethink traditional materials and embrace innovation.
Our Call to Action:
We are collaborating with industry partners to refine these concrete mixes further. Working alongside designers and specifiers, we aim to establish low-carbon construction as the new standard—not merely an option.
Interested in learning more, contact Neville on (01) 8422 823 or drop us an email to
info@altherm.ie
Let’s lead the way in sustainable construction together.
