For Lafarge, economic, environmental and social issues are inseparable and closely intertwined. Lafarge cannot imagine economic performance without sustainable development.
Reducing costs |
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Lafarge:
These environmental improvements also translate into economic gains for the Group. Using industrial waste as fuel and raw materials helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels and, in some cases, significantly reduces costs. |
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Increasing the value of products and creating a competitive advantage |
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Lafarge encourages innovation by linking it to social and environmental challenges. This adds value to products and guarantees customer and end-user loyalty.
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Meeting the needs of new markets |
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Construction needs continue to increase, particularly in high growth, emerging economies such as China and India. Their needs for modern infrastructure and better quality housing have increased. In 1985, they consumed 56% of the world's cement; by 2020, this figure should reach over 85%. For example, China consumes 45% of the world's cement and has become the world's largest market in this sector.
To meet the requirements of these important new markets, Lafarge has reinforced its research and development efforts. 500 researchers are working on quality innovations suited to the specific needs of these countries. The Group is looking not only to earn profits from these growing markets but also to make them sustainable. This involves bringing recently acquired, obsolete plants up to date, complying with environmental standards, improving the skills of employees and effectively applying safety rules. These are just some of the challenges faced by a sustainable leader! |
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Last update on 06/09/2008
