The cement industry is under constant pressure to reduce its environmental footprint while ensuring economic competitiveness and technological reliability. One of the most effective strategies to achieve this goal is the substitution of traditional raw materials with alternative ones derived from industrial (by)products, waste, or secondary resources. This paper presents a structured methodology for the selection and evaluation of potential raw materials for clinker production. The proposed approach integrates four key criteria: physical compatibility, which determines whether the raw material can be handled by existing processing equipment; chemical compatibility, which ensures compliance with clinker quality requirements; environmental compliance, which assesses adherence to local and international environmental regulations; and economic viability, including the costs of material acquisition, processing, equipment adaptation, and CO2 emissions associated with the raw mix. The research procedure involves initial communication with suppliers, visual inspection of the material, laboratory analysis (chemical and environmental), raw mix modelling, and full economic evaluation. If at any stage the material fails to meet the required criteria, feedback is provided to the supplier, avoiding unnecessary costs and efforts. Results indicate that this integrated methodology offers a systematic and transparent making of decision framework that can accelerate the acceptance of alternative raw materials, improve resource efficiency, and contribute to sustainable cement production.

The incorporation of waste glass as a component in clinker production presents a sustainable approach to addressing critical challenges in the cement industry, including the reduction of CO2 emissions and effective waste management. Waste glass, characterized by its high silica content and alkali properties, can serve as an alternative alkali source in clinker manufacturing, replacing traditional raw materials and regulating the alkali-sulphur ratio. This dual functionality not only optimizes the chemical balance in the kiln process but also enhances clinker quality by controlling phase formation. The utilization of waste materials in industrial processes is increasingly significant in promoting circular economy principles. Integrating waste glass reduces the dependence on natural raw materials such as limestone and clay, which are associated with high energy and CO2 emission intensities during production. Furthermore, waste glass contributes to a reduction in the carbon footprint of cement production by facilitating lower-temperature clinkering, thus cutting energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This study highlights the potential of waste glass as a viable alternative in clinker production, emphasizing its importance in achieving sustainability goals. Beyond the environmental benefits, adopting waste materials in industrial applications contributes to waste diversion from landfills, resource conservation, and cost efficiencies, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change and promote sustainable development.