European ‘Zero Waste’ first for Cemex

Morata cement plant becomes first in Europe to obtain ‘Zero Waste’ certificate from AENOR

CEMEX continue to advance towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible production model after their cement plant in Morata de Jalón, Zaragoza, Spain, became the first in Europe to receive the ‘Zero Waste’ certification from AENOR, the Spanish Association for Standardisation and Certification.

The plant was recognized for the recovery of at least 90% of the waste generated in by industrial process, avoiding its disposal in landfill. Currently, the percentage of waste recovery at the Morata plant is close to 95% – a significant achievement that demonstrates Cemex’s commitment to the circular economy and reducing the potential environmental impact of their operations.

In addition to this certification, the Morata de Jalón plant holds the Government of Aragón’s Circular Seal, ISO50001 standard, which recognizes the plant’s energy efficiency, and ISO14001 standard for its environmental management. The plant has also received the RSA+ seal, which highlights its commitment to corporate social responsibility, and the Business Excellence bronze seal, a certification also awarded by the Government of Aragón.

Alfonso Conde, director of Morata de Jalón cement plant, commented: ‘This certificate is the result of the team at Morata’s constant effort to minimize our ecological footprint. Cemex are committed to practices that promote recycling, reuse, and material/energy recovery, and this recognition validates our efficient resource-management strategy.’

The ‘Zero Waste’ certificate from AENOR certifies that the waste generated – such as wood, paper and cardboard, scrap metal etc – is managed responsibly, prioritizing its transformation into secondary raw materials that can be reincorporated into the production chain. 

This approach not only reduces the volume of waste ending up in landfill but also significantly contributes to the achievement of Cemex’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Cemex say this certification is part of the roadmap towards their goal of carbon neutrality by 2050 and reaffirms their leadership in environmental innovation and more sustainable industrial development in Spain.