Our priorities
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Protecting biodiversity

Because of its geographic scope, its long term business and local impacts, Lafarge South Afica continues its strong commitment to biodiversity and rehabilitation of its quarries. The objective is to preserve the animal and plant ressources present in 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 programmes 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 programmes.

 

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 programme

 

Arbour Day in the world of Aggregates

 

Arbour Day on 1 September aims to focus everyone's thoughts on the need to actively play a part in greening our country for the benefit of future generations. 2010 was specially significant in being the
International Year of Biodiversity.

 

At Lafarge, sustainability and active concern for the environment is an integral part of our normal day's work. The Group has more than 150 years of experience in quarry rehabilitation and, in partnership
with environmental agency WWF International, has a biodiversity programme covering all its quarries.
Arbour Day was used by all the Aggregates Business Unit's quarries to celebrate our rehabilitation work and create a memorable day for some of the schools in local communities.

The WWF 2010 Living Planet report

Contributing to a better world: Knysna Christian School planted a tree at Knysna quarry

Biodiversity

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

 

Glossary

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.

 

Last update on 29/07/2011

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Celebrating a 10 year Partnership with WWF

Lafarge and WWF believe that corporate commitment is key to transforming markets and to promoting sectorwide shifts towards sustainable development. When they signed their first global Conservation Partnership in 2000, they shared a vision of a collaborative relationship, shaped by ongoing dialog and mutual trust.

Partnership Brochure (P.D.F - 1882 Kb)