Biodiversity

This section of the website provides an overview of the cement industry’s actions in relation to biodiversity conservation and quarry rehabilitation, as well as numerous case studies.

Compatibility between mining activities and biodiversity is achievable through correct resource management during the mining phases in the cement sector. For example, a range of studies conducted in several European countries have demonstrated that correctly managed quarries are able to provide habitats to some protected species. In addition, proper planning and rehabilitation can positively contribute to biodiversity conservation. Below are some other examples of the positive contribution of our industry to biodiversity:

• The possibility to enhance ecosystems (post-rehabilitation) in comparison with the site prior to the initiation of extraction activities.
• The development of certain pioneer species as a result of the quarrying activity itself.
• The creation of biological corridors (also referred to as green corridors) and green infrastructure capable of equipping our society and environments for climate change, providing new migratory routs and a further potential to adapt to climate change.
• The enhancement of scientific knowledge obtained thanks to an active collaboration with universities and research centres.
• The raising of awareness about the importance of biodiversity amongst society, through the organisation of quarry open days, for example, supporting environmental education in collaboration with schools.
• The promotion of best practices within industry to transfer knowledge and experience.

Latest news:

Council adopts conclusions on EU Biodiversity Strategy

The Council conclusions on the EU Biodiversity Strategy to 2020 were adopted earlier this month in the Environment Council. The Council endorsed the Strategy and discussed issues such as green infrastructures, protected areas, Natura 2000 and promoting the use of the innovative financial mechanisms in support of biodiversity policy objectives. Read more

Commission adopts new strategy to halt loss of biodiversity by 2020

The European Commission has adopted a new strategy to halt the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services in the EU by 2020.The Commission will follow up different proposals and initiatives listed in the Strategy in 2012, and will review the strategy in 2014.  The Commission believes that the previous biodiversity strategy - the 2006 Biodiversity Action Plan – failed to halt biodiversity loss. As a result, an attempt has been made to make new 2020 strategy more focused, with a limited number of targets; six main targets, with 20 follow-up actions. Read more