This research focuses on the study of durability and environmental impact of concrete structures. Concrete is the most widely used building material worldwide and building concrete structures has a non-negligible impact on our environment. The production of Portland clinker, the main binder, contributes to 8% of anthropogenic CO2 emissions. In this project, different industrial by-products are investigated as alternative binders. The necessary pretreatment is investigated, as well as the reactivity of these binders. The effect on hydration mechanisms, formation of reaction products, microstructure and durability in various aggressive environments is studied. Via a thorough life cycle analysis, the environmental impact is determined.