Heidelberg updates on sustainability efforts

HeidelbergCement has released its 2011/2012 Sustainability Report, highlighting topics and challenges for the German cement major in its drive for sustainable development. The new report, entitled "Foundations" also details the company's continous efforts and achievements such as reducing specific net CO2 emissions by 21 per cent and increasing its alternative fuels rate  to 21.7 per cent.

Sustainable business practices form an integral of the business activities
“Sustainable business practices are a fundamental condition as well as an integral component of our business activities, and therefore central to the activities and decisions of our management teams on the ground: The important thing is to minimise the impact of our operations on the local environment and populations, and to utilise our core competencies in a way that contributes to the society at large and generates economic opportunities,” says Dr Bernd Scheifele, CEO of HeidelbergCement AG. “Presenting our sustainability achievements and aims in a report like this is an essential part of making our business transparent and understandable to our stakeholders.”

The report illustrates how much HeidelbergCement has accomplished over the past two years. For instance, specific net CO2 emissions were reduced by 21 per cent (compared to 1990 levels) to 607.5kg per tonne of cement. Moreover, employment of alternative fuels – including biomass – was successfully increased to 21.7 per cent of total energy consumption in 2012.

Occupational health and safety is one of the key topics
“In addition to environmental protection, the health and safety of our employees is another focus of the HeidelbergCement sustainability programme. The figures prove the effectiveness of our expanded prevention measures and information campaigns. Still, workplace safety remains one of our top priorities, which is why we will continue to raise awareness among management and employees with respect to their responsibility for workplace health and safety,” continues Dr Scheifele.

Interview with UN Messenger of Peace Dr Jane Goodall
By presenting various practical examples, commentaries and an interview, the Sustainability Report demonstrates that the company is breaking new ground, and pushing ahead in the quest for greater sustainability: whether through development of an innovative low-CO2 clinker by HeidelbergCement Technology Center or the company’s partnership with BirdLife International to promote conservation.

Another example is the international Quarry Life Award research and education competition. The award, presented at a ceremony featuring a speech by UN Messenger of Peace Dr Jane Goodall, was also groundbreaking for the participating countries, and gave rise to many innovative projects and partnerships at local level. Arousing insights into the work of the Jane Goodall Institute and its collaboration with HeidelbergCement are also given in an interview with Dr Goodall.

This is the fifth Sustainability Report published by HeidelbergCement Group, and was prepared in accordance with the guidelines of the Global Reporting Intiative (GRI), which has graded the report in line with its highest application level (A+).