At first glance, the large-scale excavation of raw materials would appear to destroy nature and undermine biodiversity. Yet quarries and gravel pits actually provide important habitats for plants and animals that are being increasingly displaced by development in other areas. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated that quarries, gravel pits, and other open-pit mines can be extremely valuable for environmental protection as they offer undisturbed habitats for rare and protected species.

Prior to commencing mining operations at the given site, HeidelbergCement conducts an environmental impact assessment. An important part of this assessment is the dialogue with different stakeholders like environmental authorities, nature conservation organizations and local communities.

During the extraction period, HeidelbergCement encourages all forms of biodiversity promotion. Through adequate biodiversity management measures (like Biodiversity Management Plans), well planned extraction operations that continue to create dynamism in the landscape and take breeding season into account, as well as through proper training of the quarry staff, HeidelbergCement proves that modern extraction activities and biodiversity promotion can go hand in hand.

HeidelbergCement is the first company in the construction materials sector to have implemented a guideline to promote biodiversity at its quarries through consistent standards for reclamation and renaturation. All forms of after-use that are discussed with our stakeholders, such as the creation of nature reserves, farmland, forests or local recreation parks, aim at conserving or even increasing the local biodiversity. The HeidelbergCement Biodiversity Guideline is compulsory for our operations in Europe. An adapted version serves as guidance document for our operations in Asia.