Holcim Philippines is said to be working closely with local government units and industrial companies in promoting solid waste management in the country. This is to ensure refuse are put into productive and environment-friendly use in their cement manufacturing process.

Holcim is just one of the private companies who have responded for the clamor to work with LGUs and take an active role in promoting sustainable environment programs particularly solid waste management.

Ian Thackwray, Holcim Philippines chief operating officer, said “We place environmental management high on our priorities as a company. We recognize the public’s high expectations for responsible management in this area and strive to meet and exceed those expectations.”

In the Construction Show Manila and Green Forum, which will be held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City from September 3 to 6, Holcim will showcase its sustainable development programs.

Holcim’s co-processing technology makes use of non-recyclable and non-biodegradable municipal wastes such as plastics. These usually end up in dumpsites and pose health and environment hazards in rivers and waterways.

But Thackwray explained that co-processing waste materials has already been implemented successfully in several European countries and in the US. Holcim has developed the capability and know-how to replicate this in the Philippines.

Michael Cabalda, sustainable development head of the company, said the firm’s participation in the forum is an effective channel for them to illustrate the diverse programs to promote sustainable development. “We want to promote sustainable responses to the technological, environmental, and socio-economic issues affecting building and construction,” he said.

He will talking about Holcim’s sustainable environment programs during the Green Forum. Holcim, Cabalda stressed, advocates energy-efficient use of building materials, housing and infrastructure through the Holcim Awards, a bi-annual design competition it conducts. The company also takes an active role in influencing the global building industry to take the green approach.

Holcim also co-founded the World Business Council for Sustainable Development where it committed to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by 20 percent in the year 2010. “This commitment is being realised through eco-efficient programs such as reduction of clinker factor by promoting the use of composite cement, and improvement in energy efficiency in the whole cement manufacturing process,” said Cabalda.