Protecting biodiversity

Lafarge has established a comprehensive biodiversity management system in partnership with the WWF:

• a specific methodology,
• tools to evaluate the challenges of the site,
• programs to maintain and improve biodiversity.

The objective is to work with local experts and environmental associations to establish biodiversity programs for all sites located in a sensitive area or presenting real potential for wildlife.

In partnership with the WWF Lafarge has also developed a biodiversity index to monitor and track ecological changes at the Group's quarries and sites.

Criteria include:

• the rarity of identified species,
• the surface area of the natural environment.

The ratings underpin action programs.

In 2010:

• 94% of quarries are screened according to these WWF criteria.
• 84,5% of quarries have a rehabilitation plan.
• 47% of quarries located in sensitive areas have a biodiversity program.

Lafarge works closely with specialists to expand its understanding of biodiversity:

• A panel of experts and stakeholders is consulted in all biodiversity matters.
• International experts: the indicators developed with WWF have been reviewed and have inspired key perfomance indicators for the CSI (Cement Sustainability Initiative).
• Local experts such as:
  • the "Museum d'Histoire naturelle" (France) and English Nature (United Kingdom) lend their expertise during the creation of natural habitats on rehabilitated sites,
  • the Wildlife Habitat Council (United States) has recognized the attention to biodiversity shown in the Group's industrial approach by certifying 74 of its Cement and Aggregates sites.