| Building livable communities - Holcim in Latin America |
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Description Holcim's CSR mission is to play a leading role within our spheres of influence. By working in our areas of expertise and with communities close to our operations, we have an excellent opportunity to demonstrate this approach. |
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Objectives At Cemento Polpaico in Chile, efforts are focused on the Reñaca Alto community close to the concrete plant in Viña del Mar. Meanwhile, Holcim Apasco has collaborated with the Mexican Ministry for Social Development's “Micro-Regions” program to replace earth floors with concrete in some of Mexico's poorest communities to improve health and hygiene. |
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ActvitiesSince the Chilean concrete plant was built in 1989, the neighboring community has grown to around 12,000 inhabitants. Infrastructure needs have likewise increased, and Polpaico saw the opportunity to assist with leftover concrete from its daily batches as well as technical on-site support. In this way, concrete is recycled into practical projects that benefit both stakeholders and the company. In the Mexican example, Holcim Apasco supplies the materials, logistics and technical assistance; the Ministry provides project co-ordination; state and municipal authorities offer transport, specialized personnel and technical support; and the communities themselves are the workforce. |
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Results In Chile, cooperating with the area's official community organization and other local institutions has led to several projects, including the paving of school sports and assembly zones and residential roads and sidewalks. A neighborhood sewerage system has also been constructed. In Mexico, the ongoing program has improved the lives of some 20,000 families since 2001. |
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