InsightConcrete proof that building designers can have it all!

Reducing the embodied carbon of new buildings is a mission for many developers along with their architects and design teams. It’s a mission that needs to sit within other imperatives, including a “no compromise” approach to selecting building materials that are fit for purpose. Thankfully, with access to comprehensive data one discovers that there are many materials choices that tick both boxes.

Brisbane-based manufacturer Wagners is leading the way in developing building products that support net zero without compromising engineering and construction performance.

Their Earth Friendly Concrete may look like traditional concrete, but it’s anything but ordinary. Using zero-cement concrete technology, it significantly reduces the embodied carbon associated with conventional cement-based concretes. When TSA Riley assessed its carbon impact, the results spoke for themselves—choosing Earth Friendly Concrete over standard concrete can save 250kgCO₂-e per cubic metre.

Beyond its environmental benefits, it also delivers superior performance, with improved durability, lower shrinkage, and higher flexural tensile strength. A true example of how innovation in materials can drive meaningful carbon reductions without sacrificing quality.

Their product has even featured on display at the Spark exhibition at the Australian Museum. This is a fantastic installation paying tribute to Australian innovations tackling climate change.

It’s so exciting to see Australian manufacturers leading the way with their innovative products that do good and are good. Wagners Earth Friendly Concrete extends on recent advancements in the use of geopolymer by Ritek in their single skin wall product. This allows it to deliver 60% embodied carbon reduction over typical blockwork alternatives.

They’ve certainly thrown down the gauntlet to materials manufacturers worldwide.