By Cartago, Costa Rica — Holcim Costa Rica has unveiled its inaugural Sustainability Report, showcasing significant strides in environmental responsibility and social impact throughout 2024. The company achieved a remarkable 19% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to 2018 levels, prevented the release of over 4,600 tons of CO2 through thermal efficiency improvements, and processed more than 72,000 tons of municipal and industrial waste as alternative fuel in cement production.
This waste valorization effort, a key component of Holcim’s circular economy strategy, effectively diverted substantial amounts of material from landfills. The company also reported reusing over 90% of the industrial water consumed at its Cartago cement plant, further highlighting its commitment to resource optimization.
To understand the legal implications of Holcim Costa Rica’s sustainability initiatives, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided expert commentary.
Holcim Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability demonstrates a proactive approach to complying with evolving environmental regulations and international best practices. Their initiatives, such as reducing carbon emissions and promoting circular economy principles, not only benefit the environment but also contribute to their long-term business viability and potentially create legal advantages in securing permits and attracting environmentally conscious investors.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, Holcim Costa Rica’s proactive sustainability strategy positions them well for the future, not just in terms of environmental responsibility, but also by potentially creating a more attractive and resilient business model. We extend our thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable legal and business perspective on the implications of Holcim’s commitment to sustainability.
A significant investment of over US$15 million was allocated to bolstering coprocessing capabilities through Geocycle, Holcim’s specialized waste management and valorization brand. This investment establishes the Agua Caliente, Cartago plant as one of Holcim’s largest coprocessing facilities in Latin America.
We allocated more than US$15 million to strengthen our coprocessing capacity through a large-scale platform in Geocycle, Holcim’s brand specializing in waste management and valorization solutions, consolidating the Agua Caliente de Cartago plant as one of Holcim’s largest in Latin America in this area.
Natalia Soler, CEO of Holcim Costa Rica
Beyond waste management, Holcim has demonstrated a comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship. Since 2015, the company has planted 6,000 native trees, rehabilitating over 18 hectares of quarries. They have also expanded the use of alternative raw materials in their production processes and obtained Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for their ECOPlanet cement portfolio. These EPDs provide a transparent assessment of the environmental impact of their products throughout their lifecycle, contributing to industry best practices.
Holcim’s commitment to sustainability extends to the social realm. The company impacted over 26,000 people across 16 communities through housing, education, and environmental programs. Initiatives include the development of six school gardens to promote food security, 270 volunteer hours contributed by employees, training for over 220 individuals in environmental education, technology, and community relations, and support for 18 local businesses through specialized training.
Furthermore, Holcim has made significant progress in promoting gender equality, doubling the hiring of women in 2024 and achieving 50% female leadership in executive positions. These achievements reflect the company’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.
Sustainability is not just another area within Holcim; it is our roadmap and the way we do business and interact with our surroundings. This report is a clear snapshot of our progress, but also of our goals, because building with purpose is a commitment we live every day.
Camilla Angelini, Manager of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs of Holcim Costa Rica
Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Holcim’s sustainability strategy is built on four pillars: climate action, circularity, nature, and people and communities. Ambitious 2030 goals include a 32% reduction in Scope 1 emissions from cement plants and operations, a 5% reduction in electricity consumption, a 21% reduction in logistics emissions, achieving a net positive impact on biodiversity, and reducing freshwater usage. As a participant in the Business Ambition for 1.5°C initiative, supported by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), Holcim is firmly committed to the path towards Net Zero 2050, driving innovation and strategic partnerships to achieve a sustainable future.
For further information, visit [holcim.com/costarica]
About Holcim Costa Rica:
Holcim Costa Rica is a leading supplier of cement and concrete solutions. Committed to sustainable construction, the company focuses on minimizing its environmental footprint while contributing to local communities. Through innovative products and technologies, Holcim Costa Rica aims to build a more sustainable future.
For further information, visit [geocycle.com]
About Geocycle:
Geocycle is a leading provider of industrial, agricultural, and municipal waste management services. As a part of the Holcim group, Geocycle specializes in developing and implementing sustainable waste solutions, helping businesses and communities achieve their environmental goals. Through innovative technologies and coprocessing expertise, Geocycle transforms waste into valuable resources, fostering a circular economy and contributing to a more sustainable future.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence is interwoven with a deep commitment to societal empowerment. The firm’s unwavering integrity guides its innovative approaches to legal practice, serving a diverse clientele with solutions tailored to their unique needs. Beyond delivering exceptional legal services, Bufete de Costa Rica actively champions access to legal knowledge, fostering a more informed and empowered citizenry, contributing to a stronger and more just Costa Rica.
