The article discusses the overestimation of climate benefits from cement carbonation, a process where cement reacts with atmospheric CO₂ to form carbonate minerals. The authors argue that the slow rate of carbonation leads to a climate effect that is approximately 60% smaller than the apparent benefits. They present a global analysis of cement carbonation magnitude and its dynamic effect on cumulative radiative forcing, showing that from 1930 to 2015, about 13.8 billion metric tons of CO₂ were re-absorbed globally. However, the timing of emissions and uptake is crucial, and traditional global warming potentials (GWPs) can distort the understanding of these benefits. The study also highlights the sensitivity of common decarbonization strategies, such as using supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), on the carbonation process and the importance of considering the timing of emissions release and uptake. The authors emphasize the need for effective pathways to decarbonize the cement industry, particularly in light of the urgency to meet climate goals.The article discusses the overestimation of climate benefits from cement carbonation, a process where cement reacts with atmospheric CO₂ to form carbonate minerals. The authors argue that the slow rate of carbonation leads to a climate effect that is approximately 60% smaller than the apparent benefits. They present a global analysis of cement carbonation magnitude and its dynamic effect on cumulative radiative forcing, showing that from 1930 to 2015, about 13.8 billion metric tons of CO₂ were re-absorbed globally. However, the timing of emissions and uptake is crucial, and traditional global warming potentials (GWPs) can distort the understanding of these benefits. The study also highlights the sensitivity of common decarbonization strategies, such as using supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), on the carbonation process and the importance of considering the timing of emissions release and uptake. The authors emphasize the need for effective pathways to decarbonize the cement industry, particularly in light of the urgency to meet climate goals.