Holcim UK sets out sustainability roadmap

Holcim UK publishes industry roadmap to support sustainable construction goals

Holcim UK has launched a new report outlining its commitments to sustainable construction, following research that reveals growing public concern over the environmental performance of the built environment.

The report, titled Making Sustainable Construction a Reality, responds to a national survey of 2,000 adults, which found that just 41% believe the UK’s towns and cities are built sustainably. The survey also showed that:

• 82% want more access to green spaces
• 69% believe the government should lead sustainable action
• 54% think businesses must also play a key role
• 80% want companies to be more transparent about their sustainability policies

In response, Holcim UK has identified five key commitments to guide its own operations and support the wider industry in reducing environmental impact. These commitments include a focus on decarbonisation, biodiversity, circularity, reporting transparency, and innovation.

Lee Sleight, CEO of Holcim UK, said: “Our research indicates that many recognise the need to incorporate more green spaces across the nation. Yet, it is clear that the government and businesses must work together to achieve this. Our latest report addresses the most pressing sustainability challenges with viable solutions, from accurate reporting to alternative fuels.”

Focus on nature and carbon reduction

As part of its Nature Strategy, Holcim UK is benchmarking biodiversity across its quarry sites and landholdings. A recent example includes the planting of a 64-hectare woodland at Glensanda Quarry in Scotland, where 105,000 trees are being established to restore native temperate rainforest. The habitat is designed to support wood warblers, chequered skippers and otters, contributing to wider conservation goals.

The company also continues to expand its low-carbon product portfolio, which includes:

• ECOPact: Low-carbon ready-mixed concrete
• ECOPlanet: Low-carbon cement
• ECOCycle: Products made with at least 10% recycled material

These solutions are part of Holcim UK’s efforts to reduce embodied carbon in construction and encourage more sustainable material choices in infrastructure, commercial, and residential developments.

Public and industry alignment

With 45% of respondents stating that the construction industry needs to become more sustainable, Holcim UK says it is committed to leading by example and working with partners across the supply chain to help deliver lower-impact construction across the UK.

Lee Sleight added: “Our strategic focus centres around making sustainable construction a reality. We aim to achieve this by reducing our own impact and driving positive change for the wider industry through our expert teams and sustainable solutions.”