Lafarge Cement

In our Environment Report for 2010 we present the headlines for Lafarge Cement’s operations in the UK. The Report demonstrates continued improvements in the company’s overall environmental performance and provides an interim view in advance of a full environmental statement to be published in 2012, covering the years 2009 to 2011 inclusive.

Against a backdrop of continued challenging market and cost conditions, the company is progressing its drive for incremental progress in environmental standards. Our drive to reduce particulate emissions (dust) is a notable highlight. Since 2000, when Eco Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) validation was introduced, we have reduced our overall particulates from 0.25kg per tonne of cement produced to around 0.06kg, well ahead of the Lafarge Group target.

Our use of waste-derived fuels was also significantly up on 2009: over 104,000 tonnes of these fuels used in 2010 in comparison with 92,000 tonnes in 2009, representing an increase of over 12 per cent. Increasing our use of these fuels is a key business driver, helping us reduce our reliance on virgin fossil fuels, maintain our plant environmental performance and address UK waste disposal challenges.

In 2011 we will continue with our work to introduce additional waste-derived fuels where the materials suit our process and the environmental benefits are clear. During 2010 most of our manufacturing sites were issued with the new regulatory operating permits. These new permits, combined with the requirements of current and future guidelines like the BREF, make it increasingly challenging for us to keep ahead. However, we remain committed to minimising the impact our operations have on the environment and will, where practical, invest in innovative initiatives to keep us at the forefront of performance.

We hope you find this Report of interest and that it clearly demonstrates how the environment is very much a core value for us. We welcome your comments and suggestions on this vital area of our business.