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By providing energy-efficient and eco-friendly building materials, Holcim contributes in a responsible was to sustainable construction. Together with the Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction, we also support research and development into innovative solutions for the construction industry – irrespective of the building materials involved.
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World-class sustainable buildings
The work of the Holcim Foundation promotes dialog on sustainable construction among architects, planners, construction engineers, scientists, investors and the public throughout the world and leverages our resources to benefit society. Seed funding has enabled our Group company ACC to support the construction of the headquarters of Development Alternatives, an Indian NGO based in Delhi.
This led to a partnership between the two organizations with the purpose of setting up a Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Housing and Rural Infrastructure to address imminent and future challenges of housing and rural infrastructure in India.
Our support for the extension and renovation of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) center in Switzerland is a further opportunity to promote sustainable construction. The aim is for the building to be the first in Europe certified to LEED’s highest standard.
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Affordable housing
Construction of affordable housing presents us with opportunities to create new markets. It also benefits low-income communities by addressing important social issues.
Our approach is an integrated one, combining both commercial and CSR expertise to create an enhanced offer to customers. This includes microfinance and capacity-building solutions, particularly relevant to emerging economies, where many of our affordable housing initiatives are directed. These include long-standing engagements in Latin America as well as more recent projects in Asia, North Africa and Eastern Europe.
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Achievement: 5,000 ideas to build a sustainable future
In 2008, the Holcim Foundation conducted its Awards competition for the second time. Worldwide, in five regions, a total of 52 future-oriented construction projects and visionary concepts were selected out of nearly 5,000 entries. The winners of the regional Holcim Awards compete for the global Awards in 2009.
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