HeidelbergCement launched the fifth edition of its Quarry Life Award, its nature-based competition involving more than 20 countries worldwide. Researchers, students, local communities, NGOs and nature lovers from around the world can pitch their ideas for sustainable quarry management, with prizes totaling more than $30,000 for the most innovative projects.
The Quarry Life Award supports HeidelbergCement and its partners, such as BirdLife International, in raising awareness of biodiversity in general and of extraction sites as habitats for many species.
“The time for action is now: The World Economic Forum 2021 Global Risk Report has put biodiversity loss among the five most concerning global risks, both in terms of likelihood and impact,” said Dr. Dominik von Achten, chairman of the managing board of HeidelbergCement. “With the competition, HeidelbergCement wants to contribute to the global restoration agenda and works towards a net positive in biodiversity. Our sites can provide valuable habitats for a variety of animal and plant species during and after extraction.”
Promoting biodiversity is a priority within HeidelbergCement’s sustainability strategy. Based on the award the company develops best practices and innovative ideas for quarry management, which are then applied on a global scale.
Over the last four editions, nearly 1,000 researchers investigated in more than 100 quarries how to protect nature and promote a high diversity of local flora and fauna. Some projects resulted in improved quarry management, others supported local communities.
More information: www.quarrylifeaward.com.