The Swiss cement industry emphasises using the most environmentally friendly production methods possible and plays a leading role when it comes to sustainability. The industry continually invests in finding solutions that minimise the ecological impact and boost the energy efficiency of its products, as well as reducing emissions.
In spring, this orchard and its more than 2,200 trees transforms into a sea of opal petals (image: Andreas Kofler)
The core components of cement are limestone and marl. These are two of a handful of raw materials that naturally occur in Switzerland. The cement industry can source these materials domestically, meaning that it can cover its own demand for high-quality cement.
Recycling previously used building material helps to save raw materials (image: Holcim (Schweiz) AG)
Each tonne of clinker requires around 1.5 tonnes of raw material to produce, comprised mostly of limestone and marl. These primary materials are sourced from quarries in Switzerland. The Swiss cement industry has been replacing a portion of these resources with alternatives for many years.