Clean development mechanism

 
 

The Clean development mechanism (CDM)

The CDM is one of the "flexibility mechanisms" introduced by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in the context of the Kyoto Protocol in 1997. The mechanisms are designed to provide a financial incentive for projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in developing countries. 

 

The four CDMs registered by Lafarge enable a total reduction of more than 170,000 tons of CO2 per year, representing a benefit equivalent to 10.6 million trees being planted annually. These mechanisms are part of the initiatives undertaken by Lafarge to cut its overall CO2 emissions. The Group is fighting climate change at various levels:

  • Continuous improvement in the energy performance of its factories.
  • Use of alternative fuels including biomass and industrial residues to partially replace non-renewable fossil fuels.
  • The use of cement additives which are CO2 neutral, such as slag, fly ash and pozzolan, making it possible to develop ranges of cement with a lower carbon intensity.

 
Lafarge has publicly and proactively committed itself since 2001 to reducing its net CO2 emissions per ton of cement by 20% between 1990 and 2010. This target was reached in 2009 and exceeded in 2010, with a reduction of 21.7%. New ambitions in relation to tackle climate change will soon be announced.