Heavy industry, including steel, cement, and chemicals, accounts for the largest share of industrial emissions. These sectors are central to our economies and development, but they are also responsible for more than 25 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Decarbonizing these high-emission sectors is a challenge and an opportunity. Without considerable emissions cuts from heavy industry, the world cannot reach its climate goals. Emissions from these sectors must fall by at least 20 percent by 2030 and 90 percent by 2050. Following a clear and robust pathway to 2050 for this sector seems to be the key step to kick off.

In October 2025, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, UNIDO published a guide for industrial decarbonization. The NDC 3.0  guide provides a comprehensive framework, offering practical guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders. The approach that we also promote in PathWay2050, sets out purpose and scope followed by the five key building blocks which aims to translate commitments into concrete actions.

After selecting relevant building blocks, users follow a structured process to create effective decarbonization pathways. Each block’s decision tree outlines key steps for turning commitments into action and a list of policies and measures (PAMs) across the five building blocks will help the decision makers identify optimal options. The building blocks reflect a logical progression based on feasibility and interdependence, rather than a hierarchy and practitioners are encouraged to systematically evaluate each block and consider potential synergies between them. 

For the selected sectors, there are extensive list of policies and measures under each building blocks. For instance, in chemical Industry the following initiatives are introduced.
• Abatement of N₂O Emissions in Nitric and Adipic Acid Production
• Carbon Capture and Utilization in the Chemical Industry
• Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Fertilizer Production
• Use of Biomass Feedstock in Chemical Industry
• Green Ammonia Production in Chemical Industry
• Advanced Catalysts for Petrochemical Processes
• Fuel Switching to Green Hydrogen in the Chemicals Industry
• Abatement of Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) Emissions in Fertilizer Production

Read more on UNIDO website about NDC 3.0

PathWay2050 experts can assist you understand this approach by organizing a webinar for free for your team and adapt the process to decarbonize your industry. At PathWay2050, we believe this guide is the most comprehensive of its kind available, and it has already garnered significant attention from policymakers and practitioners. Reach out for more information at info@pathway2050.com