CEMEX Reaches Recycling Targets in the UK

Together with a local waste provider, CEMEX in the UK has considerably reduced the amount of waste sent to landfill, contributing to a greener and more sustainable operation.

CEMEX in the UK comprises a wide diversity of operations in over 300 sites, each one with a different type and amount of waste. To avoid sending considerable amounts to landfill and contribute to a more sustainable future, in 2015, CEMEX in the UK worked with local waste provider Biffa, and launched its strategy Recycle R8. This program aims to increase recycling across CEMEX’s operations in the UK.

Recycle R8 involved a “comprehensive audit process and noticeable change of culture amongst the employees,” according to Andy Spencer, Director of Sustainability and Energy of CEMEX in the UK. Certain initiatives were implemented on each site and a campaign was rolled out to highlight the environmental and financial benefits of better waste management.

Thanks to these efforts, Recycle R8 has delivered solid results: The operation in the UK now consumes approximately 80 times more waste than waste sent to landfill. For instance, in cement and concrete, the operations use by-products such as fly ash from the power industry, as well as ground granulated blast furnace slag from the iron and steel producing industries.

“Recycling is our new normal. With the implementation of Recycle R8 we now have around 80% waste diverted from landfill and we continue to move toward our 100% target,” said Spencer.

CEMEX is a global building materials company that provides high-quality products and reliable services to customers and communities in more than 50 countries. CEMEX has a rich history of improving the well-being of those it serves through innovative building solutions, efficiency advancements, and efforts to promote a sustainable future.