Caterpillar, the world's largest construction equipment manufacturer, is making strides towards an electric future through a strategic collaboration with CRH, an Ireland-based provider of building materials. This marks a significant milestone, as CRH becomes the first company in the quarry and aggregates sector to enter such an agreement with Caterpillar.

The focus of this electrification strategic agreement is to accelerate the implementation of Caterpillar's zero-exhaust emissions solutions, particularly the deployment of their 70 to 100-ton-class battery electric off-highway trucks and charging solutions at a CRH site in North America. CRH is actively participating in Caterpillar's Early Learner program for battery electric off-highway trucks, conducting on-site testing and validation to provide valuable feedback on safety, performance, and compliance requirements for the aggregates industry.

Denise Johnson, Caterpillar Resource Industries Group President, emphasized the necessity for diverse sustainability solutions in the quarry and aggregates industry. The collaboration with CRH presents an exciting opportunity for mutual learning and gaining insights into how Caterpillar's products can effectively support CRH's long-term objectives of decarbonizing its operations.

Scott Parson, President of CRH Americas Materials Solutions, expressed optimism about advancing sustainable equipment usage through the partnership with Caterpillar, aligning with their joint commitment to a low-carbon future. CRH has set ambitious climate-related goals, aiming for a 30% reduction in absolute carbon emissions from 2021 to 2030 and aspiring to be a net-zero business by 2050.

This collaboration builds on Caterpillar's recent initiatives in electric construction equipment. In December 2023, the company showcased its first battery-powered underground mining truck prototype for Newmont Corporation, following the unveiling of the 793 electric surface-level mining truck in November 2022. Caterpillar's dedication to sustainability has earned recognition, with its inclusion in USA Today's America's Climate Leaders List in May 2023, acknowledging companies that effectively reduce their carbon footprint.

Caterpillar's sustainability journey dates back to 2006, with continuous refinement and establishment of new goals. Notably, the company achieved a 51% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions intensity from 2006 to 2020. In 2021, seven new sustainability goals were introduced for 2030, including a commitment to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 30% between 2018 and 2030. The 2022 Sustainability Report reported a 33% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions from 2018, reflecting Caterpillar's enduring commitment to sustainability within its own operations as it supports customers on their sustainability journey.