SIST-TP CEN/TR 18290-2:2026

Overview

SIST-TP CEN/TR 18290-2:2026 is a Slovenian Technical Report that provides guidance on optimizing sustainable construction with concrete, focusing on further decarbonization and resource efficiency in the medium and long term. Established by the Slovenian Institute for Standardization (SIST) and aligned with CEN/TR 18290-2:2026, this report highlights measures and strategies beyond current daily practices to enhance sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the concrete sector. As embodied carbon in construction accounts for approximately 25-30% of the GHG emissions over a typical building's life cycle, integrating these measures into a life cycle assessment (LCA) framework is essential for meeting climate goals. The standard also addresses the importance of adapting construction processes and materials in response to changes in regulatory frameworks, resource availability, and technological advancements.

Key Topics

• Decarbonization Strategies: Guidance is given on reducing GHG emissions through improved design, material selection, and process innovations.
• Resource Efficiency: Emphasis on optimizing the use of materials, extending building service life, and supporting circular economy principles in construction.
• Innovative Technologies: Consideration of new manufacturing methods, such as prefabrication, additive manufacturing, and digitization (e.g., Building Information Modelling - BIM).
• Material Optimization: Promotion of low-carbon cement formulations, the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCM), recycled aggregates, and overall reduction of clinker in cement.
• Regulatory Measures: Insights on regulatory frameworks and incentive systems that can accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices in concrete construction.
• Performance-Based Approaches: Introduction of Exposure Resistance Classes (ERC) and alternative performance tests to improve material durability and support inclusion of innovative materials.
• Circular Economy: Encouraging the design for lifetime extension, repair, reuse, and effective recycling of materials to close the loop in material cycles.

Applications

Implementing SIST-TP CEN/TR 18290-2:2026 can provide concrete, practical value across several contexts:

• Design and Construction: Architects and engineers can apply recommendations to optimize structural designs, minimize material waste, and select low-carbon materials, balancing performance, durability, and sustainability.
• Material Selection: Concrete producers and suppliers are encouraged to incorporate new cement formulations, recycled materials, and supplementary components to meet environmental targets.
• Regulatory Compliance: Construction professionals can leverage the report's guidance to align with evolving national and European regulations like the EU Taxonomy Regulation and RE2020.
• Project Planning: Project managers can utilize lean construction principles, digital tools, and performance-based testing to ensure efficient, sustainable operations on-site and in prefabrication environments.
• Lifecycle Assessment: Emphasizing LCA integration aids all stakeholders in quantifying carbon reduction across the building lifecycle, supporting sustainability certifications and long-term asset value.

Related Standards

For a comprehensive approach to sustainable construction with concrete, reference the following standards closely connected with SIST-TP CEN/TR 18290-2:2026:

• EN 197-5: Specifications for CEM II/C- and CEM VI-cements.
• EN 206: Concrete - Specification, performance, production, and conformity.
• EN 13670: Execution of concrete structures.
• EN 13369: Common rules for precast concrete products.
• Other CEN Standards: Work by CEN/TC 51, CEN/TC 104, CEN/TC 250, and related sub-committees addressing cement, concrete, and structural design.
• ISO Standards: For international terminology and sustainability frameworks, refer to the ISO Online Browsing Platform.

SIST-TP CEN/TR 18290-2:2026 serves as a valuable resource for industry professionals, regulators, and innovators striving for high-performance, resource-efficient, and low-carbon concrete construction. Its implementation supports the transition to climate-neutral and sustainable built environments in Slovenia, the EU, and beyond.