University of East London
Sugarcrete®
Finalist, Research with Impact - Institution
Finalist, Research with Impact
About
Sugarcrete® designed and developed by researchers at the University of East London, Sustainable Research Institute (SRI), is a low-carbon construction material that’s uses sugarcane waste (bagasse) combined with mineral binders to create building blocks. Sugarcrete blocks have a carbon footprint up to six times lower than traditional clay bricks can and store biogenic carbon from fast-growing crops. Shortlisted for a GGA in 2024, Sugarcrete blocks’ have demonstrated strong mechanical, thermal, acoustic, fire, and durability properties as well as being much more sustainable that traditional concrete block. It has transformed agricultural waste into a viable construction material reducing reliance on high-carbon materials. Its open-access model encourages
collaboration and adoption in poorer regions of the world (Global South), while also supporting affordable housing and local manufacturing. By enabling new income streams and scalable, environmentally responsible building solutions, Sugarcrete® represents a practical and socially impactful step toward decarbonising the construction industry.
Top three learnings
1. We now appreciate the complexity of solving multiple challenges simultaneously.
2. Our partnerships in India, Kenya, Spain, Central America and at home are inspiring and help solve the unsolvable.
3. Students are the future.
SDGs
9- Industry, innovation, and infrastructure
What it means to win
Recognition of our contribution to sustainability in the built environment.
| 2026 | |
| Research with Impact - Institution | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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