The production of alkaline ash binders uses less energy and emits less carbon dioxide than conventional Portland cement. Alkaline ash binders could also play a major role in reducing other environmental impacts by using locally available waste materials and industrial by-products. A BRE-led research programme has shown that these binders have the potential to be used on a commercial scale to produce durable concrete products with physical properties comparable to those of equivalent Portland cement concrete. This Information Paper examines the current drive towards reducing the environmental impact of cements through developing alkaline ash binders and presents the results of industrial-scale production trials conducted by two major manufacturers.