Leading building solutions provider Holcim Philippines, Inc. reiterated its readiness to support partners in decarbonizing construction and putting up affordable homes and called for cooperation to accelerate the shift towards more sustainable practices during key public forums.
As keynote speaker during the Net Zero Building and Net Zero Summit Philippines on Jan. 10, Holcim Philippines President and CEO Horia Adrian emphasized the important role of the construction industry in reducing the country’s carbon emissions. He noted that building materials account for 30% of the carbon footprint of structures, so it is necessary for the industry to steadily shift towards alternatives that are better for the climate.
Adrian explained that Holcim Philippines is committed to supporting partners in this transition and is accelerating sustainability initiatives from greening operations to expanding its eco-friendly offerings. Adrian said Holcim Philippines is digitalizing operations to raise the efficiency of production and logistics. The company is also using more alternative fuels and expanding its line of innovative blended cement that delivers equal to superior performance but with a lower cost to the environment.
“Holcim is committed to providing solutions for building more with fewer materials, new buildings using recycled materials from old structures, and more efficient buildings using smart design and materials. We are excited to work with partners in building greener, smarter, and for all in the Philippines to better contribute to the country’s progress,” he said.
Since 2015, Holcim Philippines has reduced its carbon footprint by 12% by producing more blended cement, replacing coal with qualified wastes as alternative fuels, and improving the efficiency of operations. The company’s carbon footprint reduction program is aligned with the Holcim Group’s net zero direction and the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions. Aside from its initiatives, the company is working with key stakeholders to encourage the consumption of low-carbon products to help reduce the footprint of the built environment.
Meanwhile, Holcim Philippines Chief Sustainability Officer Zoe Sibala shared the importance of new building materials and modes in constructing affordable houses during the ShelterTech Southeast Asia Community forum on Jan. 16, organized by the Terwilliger Center, the innovation unit of Habitat for Humanity.
Sibala explained that choosing the right cement can help build better affordable houses and shared the exciting building innovations from the Holcim Group, such as 3D building technology that the company can bring to the Philippines. She also invited affordable housing segment players to a conversation on new construction technologies and modes that can support the achievement of goals.
