We address environmental and climate change challenges by reducing CO2 emissions and water consumption, preserving natural habitats and their biodiversity in the areas surrounding our plants and promoting any technical solutions allowing us to minimize environmental risks.
Our operations respect the environment
Our commitment to a low-carbon economy has been recognized by CDP, an independent organization and reference standard for environmental reporting. Even for 2023 we obtained a rating A- for Climate Change. This result places Cementir above the cement and concrete sector average (B), the European average (B) and the Global average (B-). Furthermore, for the second time, Cementir was also awarded ‘A-’ for Water Security, higher that the Europe regional average (C) and higher than the cement and concrete sector average (B).
In February 2024, the Science Base Target initiative (SBTi) validated Cementir's near and long-term decarbonization targets aligned with the 1.5° framework scenario. In addition, SBTi also approved Cementir’s overall net-zero emissions target by 2050.
“The cement sector faces one of the most important challenges in the coming years: that of sustainable growth. On the one hand, it is necessary to respond to the growing demand for cement, on the other, it must be done with a clear vision of the commitments in the medium to long term to mitigate the impact on the environment. We have a responsibility to lead this change with an open and innovative approach.”
Our commitment to a zero emission future
Emissions reduction at every stage of the process
We participate to international round tables and partnership with institutions and governments to find the most effective solutions to tackle climate change, optimize the positive effects of existing technologies and study product and process innovations that will lead to the production of "net zero emissions" cement.
Our ambition is to reduce the intensity of CO₂ emissions by acting at every stage of production.
Our goals for CO2 reduction
We work to reduce our environmental impact throughout the value chain, from procurement to manufacturing, logistics and distribution. We actively collaborate with local communities, suppliers and customers, with non-governmental organizations and all local stakeholders.
Carbon intensity reduction targets (Scope 1) to 2030:
- 458 kg of CO2 per tonne of grey cement
- 737 kg of CO2 per tonne of white cement
Responsible and efficient use of water
Starting with water-scarce areas as a priority, we promote the sustainable use of water across all of our activities. We are strongly committed to reducing water consumption and increasing water reused/recycled, (e.g., improving drainage and collecting rainwater to reuse/recirculate a portion of water).
We aim to minimize water withdrawal and wastewater discharge, reduce losses and to promote efficient water management practices.
Protection and conservation of natural habitats and respect for biodiversity
We are part of the solution: we protect and restore the natural resources we rely on. 95% of our quarries already have a conversion plan in place.
We reuse the water in the production processes and collect rainwater in some dedicated areas of the plants. In 2023, we recycled 34% of the water used in cement production.
We promote the circular economy
We cover 22% of the thermal energy needs by using alternative instead of fossil fuels. By 2030, we forecast we will cover 50% of our thermal needs through alternative fuels.
We produce 11,120 tons of waste-derived fuel and recycle nearly 2,000 tons of material through mechanical sorting and waste treatment processes.
Learn more about our actions on research and use of alternative fuels and raw materials.
Sustainability and innovation
We are committed to maintaining a technological advantage since innovation, research and development are fundamental tools to improve our environmental footprint. We consider R&D activity as strategic not only to improve product quality and production costs but also to improve sustainability.
We design and develop new materials and new solutions to improve energy efficiency and identify new applications.
Our sustainable products
FUTURECEM® our low carbon cement technology, which exploits the synergies between natural raw materials to lower climate-altering emissions.
Our technological solutions
Discover our engagement in research on the potential of carbon capture and storage projects.