At Cementos Moctezuma, the Mexican company that produces, distributes, and sells Portland cement and pre-mixed concrete, sustainability is more than a trend it is a commitment that is shaping the future of the cement industry.
Facing the undeniable reality of the climate crisis, the cement industry is under pressure to change. Cementos Moctezuma, a leader in Mexico, is rising to the challenge with an ambitious sustainability strategy. Focused on five key pillars, the company aims to transform its operations and contribute to a greener future by 2030.
Maribel Leyte, Director of Sustainability, Environment and Continuous Improvement at Cementos Moctezuma, explains that the company has structured its sustainability plan around five essential pillars: safety and health, energy and climate change, social responsibility, environment and biodiversity, and circular economy.
With the safety and health pillar, the company seeks to guarantee the well-being of employees and reduce occupational risks as much as possible. The preventive measures implemented in the production plants are designed to ensure the physical integrity of workers and promote a safe work environment.
The second pillar, energy and climate change, Cementos Moctezuma aims to cut CO2 emissions by 20% by 2030 by adopting innovative technologies to reduce clinker use, incorporating clean energy, and utilizing alternative fuels to minimize its environmental impact.
The third pillar refers to social responsibility, an essential component in the company’s strategy. They are looking to implement programs with the goal of generating a positive impact on communities around their facilities, by creating employment opportunities and improving the quality of life of the population.
Regarding the preservation of the environment and biodiversity, they are implementing sustainable practices that protect the ecosystems near its facilities and encourage reforestation. In addition, it focuses on water management, a vital resource in the areas where it operates and actively works on the conservation of local biodiversity.
The last pillar of their strategy is the circular economy, an initiative that has become a priority for the entire cement industry. The company has incorporated the recycling of industrial waste as green fuels in its production processes. This approach not only reduces the amount of waste but also decreases the dependence on fossil fuels.
Reducing CO2 emissions in the cement industry is a complex task, but the company has adopted innovative solutions to face this challenge. José María Barroso, the company’s general manager, explains that, in addition to national and international commitments, Cementos Moctezuma is part of global initiatives, such as the agreement of the National Chamber of the Cement Industry to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
A significant challenge in Mexico is the limited waste separation and recycling infrastructure, which hinders its use in cement production. To address this, the company collaborates with authorities and industry partners to promote waste segregation and enable its co-processing in cement manufacturing.
The cement company is committed to gender equity, taking groundbreaking steps, such as establishing the first female operator school to train women in roles like heavy truck operation. This initiative has opened doors for women in traditionally male-dominated fields, highlighting the importance of inclusion for long-term success. While integrating women into the sector has been challenging, their dedication and responsibility have strengthened the company’s inclusive culture, as noted by José María Barroso.
Strategic alliances are another cornerstone of Cementos Moctezuma’s sustainability strategy. Collaboration with other companies, authorities and industry organizations is essential to drive innovation and adopt new technologies that contribute to sustainability. They are partners with associations such as the Global Cement and Concrete Association and actively participate in the creation of public policies that favor a more sustainable development for the industry.
Cementos Moctezuma’s holistic approach to sustainability sets it apart in the industry. From reducing CO2 emissions and promoting gender equity to protecting biodiversity and restoring quarries with native flora, the company demonstrates its commitment to balancing industrial growth with environmental and social responsibility. These efforts reflect a forward-thinking business model that prioritizes long-term impact and positions the company as a leader in sustainable practices.
Source: eleconomista.com.mx