In China, construction energy consumption consumes 33% of national energy consumption, accounting for 8 hundred million tons of standard coal in 2006. Building materials are one of key factors that determine the energy consumption of buildings. Research work conducted to develop new building materials and reduce energy consumption will be described.  Among building materials, the cement industry dominates global production, exceeding 1.2 billion tons in 2006 and consuming approximately 7% of China's national energy consumption that year. In addition to advancing technology, energy consumption analysis and management are of significant importance for saving energy and reducing the emissions associated with the cement industry. This presentation will introduce current developments and efforts to promote the energy efficiency of the cement industry in China.