LafargeHolcim and CDC Group join forces to scale-up an affordable low-carbon construction solution

Words: Margaret FosterLafargeHolcim and CDC Group plc (“CDC”), the UK’s development finance institution, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to set up a company to produce and promote an affordable low-carbon construction solution for developing countries.

The new company aims at scaling-up production of earth-cement bricks, a simple, reliable, affordable and environmentally-friendly building material that was launched by LafargeHolcim in Malawi in 2013.

An affordable low-carbon solution to help combat deforestation in Malawi

Deforestation and forest degradation account for the majority of Malawi’s greenhouse gas emissions. The manufacture of burnt bricks, the main building material in Malawi, is a significant contributor as a result of the wood-fired clamp kilns used in the production process.

LafargeHolcim has developed an alternative solution to burnt bricks. Durabric, designed by the Group's R&D centre, is produced from a mixture of earth and cement compressed in a mould, and left naturally to cure in the sun without firing. Durabric contributes to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and the deforestation associated with wood fuel consumption. The bricks are also more resistant than fired bricks and reduce construction costs.

“Durabric offers many benefits compared to the traditional bricks used for construction in the developing world: it is easy to manufacture, has a smaller environmental footprint, offers more resistance, and all at a lower cost,” explains Gérard Kuperfarb, Member of LafargeHolcim’s Executive Committee in charge of Growth and Innovation. “Through the new company we are setting up with CDC, we will accelerate the development of this affordable, low-carbon solution in developing markets where traditional bricks are commonly used.”

More than three million of these bricks have already been produced in Malawi, and have been used in around 500 buildings. A brick production plant is being built to increase availability of Durabric in Malawi.

Combining skills to scale up the solution

The aim of the new company, which will be managed by LafargeHolcim, will be to extend the offer developed in Malawi — including the provision of equipment to make the bricks, on-site technical support and training for brick makers — into other developing countries that are affected by deforestation resulting from the use of wood-fired bricks.

CDC, which is wholly owned by the UK Government’s Department for International Development (“DfID”) will invest alongside LafargeHolcim and contribute its expertise in investing in projects with a strong social and environmental dimension.
Detailing for Durability: The 2026 Guide to High-Performance Stone Veneer Transitions
January 2026

Some of the most expensive failures involving manufactured stone veneer installations don’t come from the stone at all, but rather from the material transitions and flashing around it. Transitions are weak points in the overall cladding where water can fi

Jeff Tew
Technical Talks
Read More
How TMC Is Reaching the Next Generation of Masons
January 2026

Advocacy, outreach, and education have never been more important to the future of Texas masonry. As the state continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled trades. Industry leaders, schools, and organizations are working together to make sure the next

Ashton Fairchild
Industry News
Read More
Restoring South High School: A Beaux-Arts Icon in Youngstown
January 2026

By Eric Holm, Executive Director, Jubilee Urban Development A Testament To Time And Craftsmanship In the heart of Youngstown, Ohio, stands a structure that has witnessed more than a century of history, resilience, and craftsmanship. South High School,

Technical Talks
Read More
Risk Management Benefits of Reviewing the OSHA Top 10
January 2026

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Standards serve to keep employers aware of common risks that can have serious consequences. This annual list highlights the most frequently cited violations that inspe

Patrick Cunningham
MAP Partner
Read More