Lunch & Learn: Concrete Innovations

Concrete is the most widely used building product in the world, yet its sustainability can often be questioned. This 1-hour presentation is intended to clarify the true environmental impact of cement and concrete while identifying the new products and manufacturing methods that are enhancing concrete’s performance to address today’s environmental challenges. New production processes can significantly offset embodied carbon. Innovative additives can enhance both plastic and hardened properties, resulting in stronger, more efficient structural cross sections, with greater durability and long-term resilience. Natural and enhanced carbonation processes offer tremendous promise for concrete to absorb and permanently remove CO2 from the environment.

Donn C. Thompson AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Director, Building Innovations
National Ready Mixed Concrete Association

Donn C. Thompson is the Senior Director, Building Innovation for the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association. Based in Kenosha, WI, he supports the Build with Strength program, demonstrating the first cost and long-term advantages of ready mixed concrete building systems throughout eight Midwest states.

A licensed architect and LEED accredited, Donn has over 20 years of practical experience in design and construction. More recently he has worked for over 22 years in the cement and concrete industry holding a variety of product support, contractor training, technical promotion, and sales positions.

Learning Objectives