Holcim sets new science-based nature targets as industry first mover
- Holcim is at the forefront of nature action as one of only three companies globally to set science-based freshwater targets
- Three new freshwater reduction targets have been set using the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) methodology
- Targets demonstrate Holcim’s science-driven approach to nature, which is central to its NextGen Growth 2030 strategy
Holcim has set three new targets for freshwater withdrawal reduction, developed using the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) methodology and validated through the Accountability Accelerator, as the company extends its industry-leading nature-positive approach and advances NextGen Growth.
- In Belgium, Holcim will reduce its freshwater withdrawal in its direct operations in the Haine Basin, to 2,534,150 m3 by 2035 – a 38% reduction compared to a 2020-2024 average.
- In Greece, Holcim will reduce its freshwater withdrawal in its direct operations in the Cyclades Basin, to 53,082 m3 by 2030 – a 23% reduction compared to a 2020-2024 average.
- In Spain, Holcim will reduce its freshwater withdrawal in its direct operations in the Onyar basin, to 174,128 m3 by 2030 – a 16% reduction compared to a 2020-2024 average.
Following Holcim’s pioneering adoption of science-based targets for nature as one of the first three companies globally in 2024, these new targets will further support the company’s Nature Strategy focused on restoring and preserving biodiversity and freshwater ecosystems.
Carmen Diaz, Chief People & Sustainability Officer, Holcim: “At Holcim, we strongly believe that science-based targets for nature are the way forward for our sector and beyond. We’re building a nature-positive future with solutions to bring nature into cities while reducing freshwater withdrawals. This is central to our NextGen Growth strategy as sustainability drives profitable growth.”
Erin Billman, Chief Executive Officer, Science Based Targets Network: “SBTN welcomes Holcim’s newly validated science-based targets to reduce freshwater withdrawals across three priority European basins. This demonstrates credible action for nature and a clear investment in long-term business resilience. We encourage other companies in their sector and beyond to follow their lead and step up for nature.”
Establishing the new SBTN-validated targets involved extensive collaboration across the value chain, including with water authorities, NGOs and academia at both national and local level. Setting locally informed freshwater reduction targets at basin level enables Holcim to proactively engage with local stakeholders, safeguard this vital resource and advance its freshwater withdrawal reduction targets.
About Holcim
Holcim (SIX: HOLN) is the leading partner for sustainable construction with net sales of CHF 16.2 billion1 in 2024, creating value across the built environment from infrastructure and industry to buildings. Headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, Holcim has more than 45 000 employees in 44 attractive markets – across Europe, Latin America and Asia, Middle East & Africa. Holcim offers high-value end-to-end Building Materials and Building Solutions, from foundations and flooring to roofing and walling – powered by premium brands including ECOPlanet, ECOPact, and ECOCycle®.
1 Net sales 2024 restated following spin-off; excludes net sales to Amrize.
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Important disclaimer – forward-looking statements:
This document contains forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements do not constitute forecasts regarding results or any other performance indicator, but rather trends or targets, as the case may be, including with respect to plans, initiatives, events, products, solutions and services, their development and potential. Although Holcim believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions as at the time of publishing this document, investors are cautioned that these statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of Holcim, including but not limited to the risks described in the Holcim's annual report available on its website (www.holcim.com) and uncertainties related to the market conditions and the implementation of our plans. Accordingly, we caution you against relying on forward-looking statements. Holcim does not undertake to provide updates of these forward-looking statements.
