Holcim at the Forefront of Science-Based Targets for Nature, Driving Sustainability in the Building Materials Industry

Holcim at the Forefront of Science-Based Targets for Nature, Driving Sustainability in the Building Materials Industry

(IN BRIEF) Holcim, a global building materials company, has been selected by the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) to participate in piloting the world’s first science-based targets for nature. Holcim will submit its nature targets for validation in 2023, based on its advanced science-driven approach to biodiversity and freshwater management. This initiative aligns with global goals on climate, nature, and development, and Holcim’s participation reaffirms its commitment to sustainability. The Science Based Targets for Nature provide guidance for companies to assess their environmental impacts and set measurable targets. Holcim’s involvement positions it as a pioneer in corporate action for nature.

(PRESS RELEASE) ZUG, 25-May-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — Holcim (SWX: HOLN), one of the world’s leading suppliers of cement and aggregates, concrete and related services, has been selected by the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) to participate in piloting the world’s first-ever science-based targets for nature. In collaboration with SBTN, Holcim will submit its nature targets for validation in 2023, marking a significant step towards establishing ambitious and measurable corporate actions for nature on a global scale.

Out of the initial seventeen companies chosen by SBTN, Holcim stands as the sole representative from its industry, recognized for its advanced science-driven approach to addressing environmental concerns. Holcim’s biodiversity targets are based on its innovative Biodiversity Indicator and Reporting System (BIRS), developed in partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This system ensures that Holcim’s efforts have a quantifiable and positive impact on biodiversity. Additionally, Holcim has set ambitious commitments for freshwater reduction and replenishment, further contributing to its comprehensive nature targets. These initiatives build upon Holcim’s previously validated 1.5°C-aligned climate targets, endorsed by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Magali Anderson, Chief Sustainability and Innovation Officer at Holcim: “At Holcim, we take a rigorous, science-based approach to nature. Building on our nature strategy, we are delighted to be selected by the Science Based Targets Network to be among the first group of companies to submit freshwater and land targets for validation. Setting science-based targets for nature is key to making a real and measurable impact to preserve and restore biodiversity and freshwater ecosystems. As part of this initiative we aim to bring our climate and nature action closer together.”

Erin Billman, Executive Director of the Science Based Targets Network: “By understanding and addressing their environmental impacts, companies such as Holcim can help mitigate supply chain disruptions, get ahead of regulatory compliance, and increase business value through access to capital and competitive advantage. I’m glad to see them seize the opportunity now and start assessing their impact on Earth’s finite resources and prepare to set the first science-based targets for nature.”

The launch of science-based targets for nature by SBTN represents a significant milestone, providing comprehensive guidance for companies to assess and prioritize their environmental impacts. The initial focus areas include freshwater and land, aligning with global objectives on climate, nature, and sustainable development, such as the Global Biodiversity Framework, the Paris Agreement, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Interested parties can gain further insights into the first science-based targets for nature through the introductory webinar.

Holcim’s participation in this groundbreaking initiative reaffirms its commitment to sustainable practices and positions the company as a trailblazer in addressing the pressing challenges facing our natural environment. By integrating science-based targets for nature into its operations, Holcim is setting a new standard for the corporate sector and driving positive change for a more resilient and biodiverse future.

About Holcim

Holcim is a global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions with net sales of CHF 29.2 billion in 2022. Driven by its purpose to build progress for people and the planet, its 60,000 employees are on a mission to decarbonize building, while improving living standards for all. The company empowers its customers across all regions to build better with less, with its broad range of low-carbon and circular solutions, from ECOPact to ECOPlanet. With its innovative systems, from Elevate roofing to PRB’s insulation, Holcim makes buildings more sustainable in use, driving energy efficiency and green retrofitting. With sustainability at the core of its strategy, Holcim is becoming a net-zero company with 1.5°C targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Learn more about Holcim on www.holcim.com, and by following us on LinkedIn.

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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.

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SOURCE: HOLCIM