Report shows specific net CO2 emissions down by 21% and alternative fuels rate increased to 21.7%
HEIDELBERGCement have released their 2011/2012 Sustainability Report, which highlights topics and challenges for HeidelbergCement in their drive for sustainable development, as well as detailing the successes and aims of enterprise sustainability management, and the company’s activities in the arena of environmental and climate protection, workplace safety and social responsibility.
‘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,’ said Dr Bernd Scheifele (pictured), CEO of HeidelbergCement AG.
‘The important thing is to minimize the impact of our operations on the local environment and populations, and to utilize our core competencies in a way that contributes to the society at large and generates economic opportunities.
‘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 HeidelbergCement’s accomplishments over the past two years, including a 21% reduction in specific net carbon dioxide emissions (compared to 1990 levels) to 607.5kg/tonne of cement, as well as a 21.7% increase in the use of alternative fuels – including biomass – as part of total energy consumption in 2012.
‘In addition to environmental protection, the health and safety of our employees is another focus of the HeidelbergCement sustainability programme,’ continued Dr Scheifele.
‘The figures prove the effectiveness of our expanded prevention measures and information campaigns. 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.’
The report also provides details of the development of an innovative low-CO2 clinker by HeidelbergCement Technology Center, as well as the company’s partnership with BirdLife International, to promote conservation, and its international Quarry Life Award research and education competition award, which was presented by UN Messenger of Peace Dr Jane Goodall.
The Sustainability Report was prepared in accordance with the guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), which has graded the report in line with its highest application level (A+).
