Protecting biodiversity

 

The Group's operations affect ecosystems. Therefore, for many years, biodiversity has been a long standing key focus area for Lafarge, which was one of the original work streams in its partnership with WWF. In this framework, Lafarge has been actively rehabilitating its quarries to restore and create new habitats. The goal is now to broaden this approach by also looking at improving biodiversity on all Lafarge sites. For Lafarge Malawi, protecting the biodiversity of its quarries is a high priority. The objective is to preserve the animal and plant populations of these natural environments.

A biodiversity management system

 

Lafarge has established a comprehensive biodiversity management system in partnership with the WWF:

  • a specific methodology,
  • tools to evaluate the challenges of the site,
  • programs to maintain and improve biodiversity.

The objective is to work with local experts and environmental associations to establish biodiversity programs for all sites located in a sensitive area or presenting real potential for wildlife.

 

In partnership with the WWF Lafarge has also developed a biodiversity index to monitor and track ecological changes at the Group's quarries and sites.

Criteria include:

  • the rarity of identified species,
  • the surface area of the natural environment.

The ratings underpin action programs.

 

In 2010:

  • 94% of quarries are screened according to these WWF criteria.
  • 84,5% of quarries have a rehabilitation plan.
  • 47% of quarries located in sensitive areas have a biodiversity program.

Biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to the diversity of living organisms and species in land, marine and aquatic ecosystems.

 

Sustainable development

The World Commission on Environment and Development defines sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs".

 

Sustainable development aims to reconcile 3 major stakes:

  • economic performance,

  • the social consequences of a company's actions (with respect to employees, suppliers, customers and the local community),

  • environmental aspects (achieving a balance between a company's activities and the preservation of ecosystems).

 

The advisory panel on biodiversity

This panel was created in 2006 to advise Lafarge on its biodiversity strategy. The group has 8 members (6 independent and 2 from Lafarge) and meets twice a year to present its opinions and recommendations.

 

Partnerships with specialists

 

Lafarge works closely with specialists to expand its understanding of biodiversity:

  • A panel of experts and stakeholders is consulted in all biodiversity matters.
  • International experts: the indicators developed with WWF have been reviewed and have inspired key perfomance indicators for the CSI (Cement Sustainability Initiative).
  • Local experts such as:
    • the "Museum d'Histoire naturelle" (France) and English Nature (United Kingdom) lend their expertise during the creation of natural habitats on rehabilitated sites,
    • the Wildlife Habitat Council (United States) has recognized the attention to biodiversity shown in the Group's industrial approach by certifying 74 of its Cement and Aggregates sites.