Land use and biodiversity
HeidelbergCement takes into account both economic and environmental sustainability when deciding which deposits are suitable for extraction. Quarries and gravel pits completely transform the existing landscape, destroy local habitats and alter the morphology of the surrounding area. Because animals can usually relocate within a short time, but plants cannot, we take great care when removing topsoil. After all, the plant seeds, tubers and roots are a vital archive of the variety of vegetation in the area.
We need to develop feasible approaches for mini-mising our interventions and offsetting their consequences. That is why we adhere to a complex permission process before we open a new quarry or expand an existing one. This process includes an environmental impact assessment and — if the site is located in a particularly biodiverse region — specialised biodiversity studies such as the natural habitats and wild flora and fauna assessment of compatibility in Europe. Compensatory measures such as reforestation and support for nature conservation projects are also defined during this process.
Biodiversity management at our quarries
Recultivation plans are an important component of permission procedures today. These plans define the goals and timetable as far as reincorporating a quarry into the surrounding landscape is concerned. Even during extraction operations, which are carried out in close consultation with the appropriate authorities and local municipalities, we already begin with the renaturation and recultivation of sections that are no longer being quarried. Our focus here is on promoting biodiversity for all forms of subsequent land use — for example, crop cultivation, forestry or nature conservation. Proper renaturation results in true added value in terms of nature conservation and species protection.
In 2011, we began collecting data on biodiversity indicators throughout the Group. The topic has thus become a component of our environmental management system. At least 50% of all quarries in areas marked by a high level of biodiversity will be assigned management plans by 2020. More than 110 such plans have already been drawn up in pilot projects to date. In 2011 we will develop an implementation guideline for the plans and begin carrying them out.
Group guideline for the promotion of biological diversity
In order to systematically promote biodiversity at our mineral extraction sites, we have implemented an appropriate Group guideline. For the first time, the guideline defines standards for restoration and renaturation, and ensures that all measures of after-use at HeidelbergCement take into account the economic, ecological and social needs of the community. With immediate effect, the guideline will be applied throughout Europe and used as a guiding document in Asia-Pacific.