HeidelbergCement partner with EMBL

20 November, 2017

Organizations agree three-year collaboration to explore solutions in CO2 reduction

HeidelbergCement and EMBL have agreed a three-year collaboration to exchange scientific and technical knowledge. A new Memorandum of Understanding, co-signed by both organizations, aims to encourage beneficial knowledge exchange in areas related to CO2 emission reduction, avoidance and recovery, and drive innovation.

EMBL is an international, interdisciplinary intergovernmental organization that seeks to develop new technology and methods in the life sciences for the benefit of society. It is supported by over 20 member states with more than 1,600 people from over 80 countries operating across six sites in Barcelona (Spain), Grenoble (France), Hamburg (Germany), Heidelberg (Germany), Hinxton (UK) and Rome (Italy).

‘We are delighted to be partnering with EMBL, one of the world’s leading research institutions for molecular biology, to jointly explore innovative approaches to fight climate change,’ said Dr Bernd Scheifele (pictured), chairman of the managing board of HeidelbergCement AG. ‘This will further strengthen our competence and our commitment to reduce the environmental footprint of our business.’

HeidelbergCement and EMBL will focus their collaborative activities on the co-ordination of conferences and workshops, bringing international experts to EMBL’s Advanced Training Centre to learn about and debate key research areas. Meetings will also be initiated to bring together experts from both organizations to develop ideas, action plans and sustainable business practices.

During the three-year period, HeidelbergCement and EMBL will also explore further areas for mutually beneficial collaborations.

‘Climate change is an incredibly pressing issue’ said EMBL director Prof. Matthias W. Hentze. ‘The science underpinning it is complex and we need the best scientists worldwide to put their heads together to look for innovative solutions. Building on our strong network of internationally leading scientists, EMBL will help facilitate this collaboration and promote discussion between experts.’

With almost 6% of global CO2 emissions coming from cement production, HeidelbergCement have already pledged to reduce specific CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030 in comparison with 1990 levels.