RAK-based Pioneer Cement to Go Green, to Use Fuel from Waste for Production

Signs landmark pact with Emirates RDF Company to become one of the first cement companies to use fuel derived from household waste  

Ras Al-Khaimah-based Pioneer Cement Industries, today said it has signed a landmark agreement with Emirates RDF that will lead to the use of fuel derived from household waste in its production plant.

In a statement, the company, which is a subsidiary of Oman’s largest cement manufacturer, Raysut Cement, said it will be one of the first cement plants in the region to use waste fuel contributing to the vision of sustainable development and environment of the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.

“The UAE Government’s support to Emirates RDF to generate fuel from common household waste is a significant milestone in the country’s journey to become a global leader in sustainable waste management. Pioneer Cement has a strong focus in protecting environment and the agreement which will pave the way for us to use RDF (Refuse Derived Fuel) is a pioneering step in bringing innovation in cement production,” said Ashley Bryan, General Manager of Pioneer Cement Industries.

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Emirates RDF with its plant in Umm Al Quwain is a US$40 million joint venture developed under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) programme co-financed by the Ministry of Presidential Affairs with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment signing a concession agreement with its shareholders which include the UAE-based contractor, BESIX, Ajman-based Tech Group and Finland-based Griffin Refineries.

Emirates RDF will process household waste from Ajman and Umm Al Quwain in the Northern Emirates to produce alternative energy that can be used in cement production, ultimately helping to phase out the use of gas or coal. 

Pioneer Cement is one of the largest and modern cement manufacturers in the UAE.

“By signing up to use RDF in its production plants, Pioneer Cement is taking a lead and we are confident that many more cement plants will follow suit and join the green road to environmental sustainability. Beyond a business deal, the agreement between Pioneer and Emirates RDF is a winning combination for the people of the UAE in protecting the environment they live in,” said Christian Abl, Director of Emirates RDF, adding that the use of RDF will actively contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from cement factories.

“This is a fantastic initiative that shows we are committed towards the environment and we are doing our bit for a clean and greener future.  We at Raysut are really proud of this project.” quoted saying Mr. Joey Ghose, Group CEO of Oman head quartered Raysut Cement Company.

Trial production of the green fuel at Emirates RDF is set to start by the summer of 2019 with the plant looking off full-fledged production at the beginning of 2020.