Brewing Sustainability: Coffee-Infused Concrete Paves the Way in Infrastructure Innovation

A groundbreaking innovation is transforming Melbourne’s infrastructure—coffee-infused concrete. Developed by RMIT University, this sustainable alternative replaces a portion of traditional sand with biochar derived from used coffee grounds. With Australia generating 75 million kg of coffee waste annually, this initiative aims to reduce landfill waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance concrete durability. The Pakenham Roads Upgrade is the first major project under Victoria’s Big Build to incorporate this eco-friendly material, utilizing 5 tonnes of coffee grounds to create 2 tonnes of biochar, reinforcing 30 cubic meters of concrete.

Traditional concrete production relies heavily on sand, a depleting natural resource. Coffee biochar, a denser and more sustainable material, can replace up to 655 million kg of sand in concrete applications. The process involves heating spent coffee grounds to 350°C without oxygen, converting them into high-strength biochar that enhances structural integrity by 30%. This method not only promotes waste reduction but also offers economic benefits, making it a viable solution for large-scale infrastructure projects.

Following the successful Gisborne footpath trial, RMIT is working with commercial partners in the construction and agricultural sectors to scale up the adoption of biochar in various applications. With BildGroup and Earth Systems leading its implementation, coffee-infused concrete is paving the way for a more sustainable construction industry. As the demand for eco-friendly materials grows, biochar-based solutions are set to play a pivotal role in future infrastructure projects worldwide.