Cementtech, one of the most prestigious global gatherings for the cement industry, brought sector representatives together in China on May 13, 2026. Delivering the opening keynote, TÜRKÇİMENTO President Adil Sani Konukoğlu evaluated the Turkish cement sector's production power, sustainability investments, and international collaborations. Konukoğlu emphasized that the industry has accelerated investments in alternative fuels, energy efficiency, and low-carbon production technologies.
A Strategic Vision: The "Triple Transformation"
Stating that the Turkish cement sector views the transformation process not merely as a compliance necessity but as a strategic move to determine long-term competitiveness, Konukoğlu introduced the "Triple Transformation" approach. This model places green transformation, digital transformation, and human-oriented transformation at its core.
Konukoğlu highlighted the inseparable link between sustainability and technology:
"Green transformation cannot be considered apart from digitalization. Data-driven management, AI applications, and advanced production technologies are decisive in everything from carbon emission reduction to resource efficiency."
Energy Production Equivalent to 658,000 Households
Sharing current data on sustainability investments, Konukoğlu demonstrated the scale of the Turkish industry's efficiency efforts:
Alternative Fuel Usage: Reached 2.1 million tons as of 2024.
Thermal Energy Substitution: 13% of the sector's thermal energy needs are now met by alternative sources.
Waste Heat Recovery (WHR): With facilities installed on 27 lines across 17 factories, the sector generates 164.5 megawatts of energy. This production is equivalent to the daily electricity consumption of approximately 658,000 households.
11 Million Tons of CO₂ Reduction Goal
In line with Türkiye’s 2053 Net Zero emission targets, the sector is prioritizing the expansion of low-carbon next-generation production technologies. Konukoğlu noted that regulations encouraging the use of "green cement" in public projects are expected to result in an emission reduction of approximately 11 million tons of CO₂ over the next 10 years.
Strengthening Türkiye-China Synergy
Konukoğlu also pointed to the strategic cooperation developed with the China Cement Association, noting that Türkiye’s robust production infrastructure combined with China’s expertise in automation and digitalization creates a powerful synergy. TÜRKÇİMENTO CEO Volkan Bozay also participated in the event's panel sessions, sharing insights on the sector's progress regarding international partnerships.
