In every country where Lafarge has a presence, the company builds relationships with local representatives and members of nongovernmental organizations (N.G.Os.). The Group relies on their expertise and local knowledge to implement efficient development programs.
Partnerships with local associations |
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While global partnerships are very important, Lafarge does not overlook the need for partnerships with local associations or NGOs. Thousands of programs are currently being carried out in the field. They touch on all aspects of sustainable development: quarry and site rehabilitation, housing for under-privileged populations, infrastructure development, preventive medical programs, local economic development, etc.
For example:
In the United States, Lafarge supports this NGO, which converts unused land into ecological spaces that favor biodiversity. In less than 20 years, over 2 million hectares in 48 countries have been "converted".
In Zambia, Lafarge has implemented an H.I.V./Aids prevention program in association with Afya Mzuri (formerly called ZHABS - Zambia HIV/Aids Business Sector project) that aims to reduce risky behavior. Nearly 25% of Zambian adults are infected with Aids and only one third of the population is informed about the modes of transmission. 68 "peer educators", who are Lafarge employees, raise awareness among the population and inform them of the risks of transmission.
Lafarge supplied the materials (cement, concrete and aggregates) to build the walls of the Nicolas Hulot School for Nature and Mankind, in the Morbihan, France. These walls have received the French high environmental quality certification. |
All case studiesAll case studies in a single click! Whether you want to know about actions in the field, best practices, local partnerships and volunteer employees or protecting biodiversity, the construction of affordable housing and HIV/Aids screening... Lafarge.com offers more than 100 case studies! |
Examples of action in the field for everyone, both employees and local communities |
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Public health actions
Lafarge in Indonesia has introduced a mobile medical service with the help of government institutions. Doctors supply drugs and basic treatment to village inhabitants and local Lafarge employees.
A medical center was set up at the Lafarge plant to educate employees about ways to prevent malaria: mosquito nets, draining of ponds and stagnant water, insecticides, etc. The Malawi cement plant has recorded a 25% drop in the number of cases of malaria since this program was implemented.
Lafarge has sites in rural regions of eastern India where illiteracy, malnutrition and poor sanitation are major issues. The Group participated in setting up an eye clinic and mobile dispensaries in the state of Chattisgarh. Medical care and advice are provided free of charge. Every year, over 25,000 people from 75 villages receive treatment.
Educational actions
Lafarge works to support local economic development by organizing masonry training courses for young jobseekers. These courses are evaluated and certified by a recognized organization, the Institute of Engineers. For their practical training, the apprentice masons build classrooms for schools in the region! Lafarge employees also help the young masons find jobs with local builders or suppliers. The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (W.B.C.S.D.) has praised this initiative.
Power House is an organization that helps drug addicts. It offers them a place to live as well as an apprenticeship in masonry or cattle raising. Lafarge in Sri Lanka supports these reintegration actions by supplying cement to Power House. The residents have used it to make bread ovens, dormitories, chicken coops and a dining area!
Assistance after natural disasters
The devastating forest fires which struck Greece in August 2007 caused damage to the area around Lafarge's Milaki cement and ready-mix concrete plant. Lafarge, the leading cement producer in country, is working closely with local authorities to supply construction materials and participate in the basic construction work to repair the drinking water and drainage systems and rebuild public infrastructure and buildings. The Group will also participate in programs to restart agricultural activities in affected regions, protect the environment and prevent forest fires.
In 1999, Hurricane Mitch devastated Central America, dumping the equivalent of an entire year's rainfall in a matter of hours. Given the extent of the destruction, the general management of Lafarge provided emergency financial assistance. At Lafarge Incehsa, a collection raised €190,000, which was used to purchase urgently needed medication. Heavy equipment from Lafarge quarries was mobilized to help with reconstruction and reopen roads. Teams from Lafarge Incehsa actively participated in rescue efforts.
The tsunami of December 2004 devastated the province of northern Sumatra, particularly the city of Banda Aceh, near which Lafarge has a cement plant. Of a total of 635 employees in the country, 193 Group employees (employed directly or working for permanent subcontractors) lost their lives. Given the extent of the destruction to houses, transport infrastructure and public buildings, Lafarge is doing everything it can to help local communities return to normal. It has constructed over 300 houses, set up mobile clinics, restaurant facilities and schools, purchased school supplies, renovated mosques, organized training courses in construction and catering skills, etc. |
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Last update on 03/05/2010
