Science-based pathways for nature

We advocate the development of a common framework to measure and monitor the impact of activities on biodiversity and freshwater to allow for better target-setting and the measurement of improvements. Global targets and science-based indicators are essential to provide direction for business. We support the development of frameworks that enable organizations to identify, measure and value their direct and indirect impacts and dependencies on natural capital, including the integration of ecosystem service values in the assessment of natural resources.

We are committed to delivering our actions in a rigorous, science-based manner. As such we are now part of the Science Based Targets Network Corporate Engagement Program to test the new methods, guidance and tools being set.


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Partnerships and engagements to optimize impact

We support an active role for businesses in enhancing nature. However, partnerships with local experts are crucial to optimize our impact. We advocate collaboration that accelerates action.

As an example, Holcim’s Chief Executive Officer Jan Jenisch signed the Call to Action of Business for Nature, which brings together influential organizations and forward-thinking businesses seeking to reverse nature loss. We aim to positively influence policymakers who are discussing international agreements on nature and climate change. Our Chief Sustainability and Innovation Officer Magali Anderson is a member of the Business for Nature’s Strategic Advisory Group, supporting them to set directions and prioritize actions.

Holcim is enhancing the assessment, reporting and action on our dependencies and impacts on nature across our 2,300 sites in 70 countries. We are excited to be contributing to the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD)’s efforts to develop a framework that can guide business operations to deliver a nature-positive future. This will complement our ongoing work with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) which we have been an official supporter of since 2017.

We are also a signatory of the CEO Water Mandate and the WASH pledge strengthening our water stewardship commitments.


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Leveraging public policy and incentives

We believe businesses have an active role to play in providing solutions for nature. Nevertheless, public policies are key to accelerate actions in this decade to reverse nature loss. For biodiversity, we support the establishment of mandatory rehabilitation requirements in all countries. Those requirements should encourage ecosystem restoration including: high-diversity fauna and flora, restoration based on endemic species, continuity with neighboring natural landscapes and spaces, and progressive rehabilitation, i.e. rehabilitation taking place simultaneously with extraction work. Incentives can facilitate the protection of endangered species, particularly in biodiversity sensitive areas. For a greater impact on freshwater reduction, government mandates and incentives are necessary to promote investment in technologies for rain harvesting, optimization of water use in processes, and affordable low-carbon energy desalination.

Our mandatory Water Directive sets the rules for managing water in a responsible and sustainable manner. It includes aspects of legal compliance, establishing operational water footprint, risk assessment and stakeholder engagement. In biodiversity, a mandatory Quarry Rehabilitation and Biodiversity Directive sets the framework to manage risks, as well as measures to protect and enhance biodiversity.

Holcim launched also its first Nature Policy with the main purpose to set out the company’s objective to protect and restore water and biodiversity.


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