The World Conservation Union (IUCN) and Holcim Group have entered into a three years relationship (2007-2009) that aims at developing “robust ecosystem conservation standards for the Holcim Group, contributing to sector-wide improvements in the cement and related sectors.”

To achieve this aim, Holcim and IUCN relationship focuses on three objectives:

  • Review and assess the approach of the Holcim Group to biodiversity conservation management, establish a baseline, and develop a more comprehensive corporate biodiversity policy and strategy for the Holcim Group.
  • Explore, identify and develop joint initiatives of mutual interest and benefits, particularly those supporting sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity conservation.
  • Promote good practice by sharing the learning with the wider industry and conservation communities.

In order to achieve the set objectives, annual activities will include the establishment of a baseline of current practice and related policies, guidelines and commitments; the establishment, classification and categorization of Holcim Group site inventory using IUCN knowledge, information and expertise; and the review of existing arrangements for quarry rehabilitation planning and implementation. An Independent Standing Expert Panel  will provide scientific and quality assurance support in the implementation of the Agreement’s activities.


Holcim and IUCN will also explore joint sustainable livelihood initiatives as well as will address the sustainability of biomass used in a number of Holcim’s operations. It is envisaged that these two areas of work in particular should be implemented in particular through country based agreements.


The global Agreement is coordinated by two relationship managers, based at Holcim and IUCN headquarters respectively.


The success of the relationship will also depend on the vast IUCN and Holcim networks of regional and country offices: to complement and strengthen the expected outcomes of the global relationship, country based agreements to address specific local conservation challenges are being established between IUCN Country/Regional offices and Holcim country operations.


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