As we begin to look towards our policy agenda for 2022, it is becoming abundantly clear that we need to engage more effectively on both the sustainability and resiliency benefits of concrete. Regardless of your opinions of the causes of climate change, policymakers from Washington, DC to Williamson County, TX, are all struggling with how best to manage the impacts of rising temperatures. And while traditionally, cement production’s contribution to climate change has been used by the environmental community against the industry, I am hopeful that we can help create a narrative that not only allows us to defend against these attacks but also allows us to share the significant life cycle carbon dioxide (CO2) benefits of concrete pavement more aggressively. In recent conversations with both members of Congress and local level Mayors and City Council members, it has become apparent that we have some work to do on our sustainability-related communications. The good news is that we have some outstanding content to work with, thanks to the work of groups like the CP Tech Center and our partnership with the CS HUB at MIT. Additionally, the Portland Cement Association (PCA) has taken a leadership role on this issue. To help ACPA members better understand how PCA has positioned itself on climate change, I’m pleased to share that PCA’s President and CEO Michael Ireland has agreed to present on their recently released “Roadmap to Carbon Neutrality” at our upcoming Annual Meeting in Huntington Beach.  Another great reason to register for the event if you haven’t already.

Climate change also appears to be one of the sticking points in President Biden’s push to pass the Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This week the White House floated several alternative climate proposals with the hopes of winning the support of coal-state Senators like Joe Manchin (D-WV). That being said, ACPA did have a significant Capitol Hill WIN on Monday when report language we proposed was included word-for-word in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations draft legislation released by Senate Appropriations Chairman Pat Leahy (D-VT). The $3 million for concrete pavement research in the airfield pavement technology program matches the language in the House report and puts us in a great position as Congress moves forward with debating the thirteen bills that fund the government.

In this week’s newsletter, we are introducing a new section, “On The Grade.” Each week, we’ll use “On the Grade” to keep you updated on the on-site, state-related, concrete advocacy, and technical support the national staff is providing. Check out the inaugural section and hear about Leif’s time with Pennsylvania lawmakers, Eric’s presentation in Colorado, and my trip to South Dakota!

Have a great week!