This research tackles concrete’s carbon footprint by replacing Portland cement with locally sourced natural pozzolans. By calcining and testing South Island geomaterials, the work demonstrates a low-cost, carbon-free alternative that maintains strength and durability while reducing emissions and construction costs.

This study tested sustainable alternatives to sand for Texas rain-garden soils, using waste materials like crushed glass, oyster shell, and expanded shale mixed with clay. All alternatives performed as well as sand in draining stormwater. These findings support affordable, scalable, and environmentally friendly strategies to reduce urban flooding amid rising climate-driven flood risks.