Cellulose-Based Compounds
SlateRete Provides a Sustainable Method to Recover Rare Earth Elements
Kanesa D — February 20, 2026
SlateRete, founded in 2024 and based at NovaUCD, is developing a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete by repurposing slate waste. While concrete is essential for modern infrastructure, its production accounts for 4-8% of global CO₂ emissions, creating pressure for greener alternatives.
SlateRete’s approach replaces high-carbon concrete ingredients with slate waste, cutting CO₂ emissions by over 40%, reducing the need for pigments, and minimizing the extraction of virgin materials. The resulting material is not only environmentally friendly but also high-performance and visually appealing, making it suitable for a range of construction applications.
The start-up focuses on environmental impact, materials innovation, and design to deliver a construction solution that aligns sustainability with functionality and aesthetics, appealing to environmentally conscious clients seeking low-carbon alternatives.
