The construction sector is one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, with cement, concrete, and steel alone accounting for a significant share of industrial carbon output. To meet ambitious climate goals while still meeting the world’s demand for infrastructure and buildings, we must find scalable solutions to decarbonize these hard-to-abate materials. One emerging tool is the environmental attribute certificate (EAC)—a market-based instrument that can provide transparency, verify emissions reductions, and accelerate adoption of low-carbon materials.

In this session, Microsoft and Carbon Direct will discuss how EACs can be used to scale the development of low-carbon cement/concrete and steel. You’ll learn what defines a high-quality EAC, how these instruments support procurement and supply chain decarbonization, and why companies like Microsoft are incorporating them into their climate strategies.

Key takeaways

• A clear understanding of what EACs are and why they matter for low-carbon materials

• Insight into the quality criteria that define integrity and ensure EACs deliver real climate impact

• Lessons from Microsoft’s buyer perspective on using EACs to meet sustainability targets

• Guidance on how EACs can support procurement, supplier collaboration, and market development for decarbonized cement, concrete, and steel