First all-electric concrete mixer: CO2 and NOx neutral

On Tuesday, September 1 ("Sustainable Tuesday"), Kijlstra, a nationwide supplier of concrete mortar, launched the world's first all-electric concrete mixer in Amsterdam. The mixer and the truck used to transport it are silent and completely free of CO2 and nitrogen emissions.

The "unveiling" took place at the main entrance of City Hall by Marieke van Doorninck, Amsterdam's Alderman of Spatial Planning and Sustainability and Koen Overtoom, CEO Port of Amsterdam.

Construction benefits from less nitrogen

Kijlstra Betonmortel, together with Bontrup Mortel Circular, has a concrete mortar plant in the port of Amsterdam. Together, with this initiative, they are contributing to both municipal and port policies that are more committed to sustainability.

The reduction of nitrogen, another effect of the electric drive, is additionally beneficial to the capital's housing ambitions. Nitrogen problems sometimes delay construction projects.

Marieke van Doorninck is therefore pleased with the electric concrete mixer: "In Amsterdam we set high sustainability requirements for new homes that are built. But it is equally important that the construction of these homes is also done in the most sustainable way possible. This is not only pleasant for the environment because it is accompanied by less noise, but also helps us with the nitrogen issue. By reducing our nitrogen emissions during construction, projects can continue in a responsible manner without compromising the quality of nature."

Technical director of Kijlstra, René Kors, points out that one truck is just the beginning. "There are some 150 concrete plants in the Netherlands. Trucks and concrete mixers leave every day from each plant. If electricity or hydrogen becomes the norm in our industry, we will create a huge environmental benefit."

Construction materials growth at Amsterdam port

Because there is still a lot of growth in construction (housing, offices, roads), storage of building materials is also increasing at the Port of Amsterdam. According to Koen Overtoom, CEO Port of Amsterdam, it is not only a growth in volumes, but also in innovation. "Building materials are an important cargo flow for the Port of Amsterdam. Amsterdam has a major construction task and builders are feeling the effects of the nitrogen issue.

This innovative concrete mixer reduces CO2 and nitrogen emissions and is therefore less environmentally damaging. I know that work is also being done to reduce the CO2 effects of concrete itself, by changing the composition of the material (less cement, more natural rock). With initiatives like this, we are making the port and the city more sustainable. I am therefore proud of this kind of innovative port companies ."