Environmental protection measures
Acting ecologically is a matter of course for HOCHTIEF. Our global projects and
activities all have an impact on their surroundings. We therefore identify
interventions in nature as early as possible—frequently before starting
construction work. As early as the planning stage, we are developing detailed
environmental concepts, and we work hand in hand with environmentalists both
then, and on the later renaturing. We want to preserve the flora and fauna in
the vicinity of our projects.
By preserving biodiversity and the quality of natural habitats, we are also
helping to protect human health. We therefore ensure that we use as little space
as possible for the construction of new real estate and facilities. We
revitalize existing buildings and improve their energy efficiency. When it comes
to operating them, we aim for resource-conserving efficiency.
Internally too, we make every effort to avoid causing environmental damage. We
standardize environmental protection processes and promote the international
exchange of experience. We avoid products containing hazardous substances
wherever possible, and use materials certified in accordance with environmental
criteria—in the office, for example.
You can see examples of the many environmental protection measures being taken
within the HOCHTIEF Group here:
Renaturation in contract mining projects
With more than 60 years’ experience, HOCHTIEF has made a solid name for
itself as the world’s leading contract miner thanks to Australian subsidiary
Leighton and the companies in its portfolio. In doing so, we put special
emphasis on efficient and environmentally friendly mining. Continual monitoring
of the situation in the mines and the mining processes is standard procedure.
Our mining specialists take various measures that aim to minimize the
environmental effects of mining and improve the carbon footprint of projects,
such as using fuel-efficient machines or solar panels to generate power. In
addition, we subsequently provide renaturation services. In one case, Leighton
subsidiary Thiess was awarded a coal mining contract at Meandu Mine in the South
Burnett region of Australia. The company devised an environmental management
system tailored to the requirements of the project in accordance with ISO 14001
guidelines. After mining ends, all affected land will be rehabilitated back to
the condition of the local ecosystem.
Maintaining biodiversity and habitats
Using biological resources sustainably helps maintain the quality of habitats
and therefore ensures that conditions are in place for human health. So resource
protection is not just about the environment. HOCHTIEF is aware of this and, as
early as the planning phase of construction projects, advocates maintaining
biodiversity in the areas surrounding its projects. We develop customized
environmental strategies to minimize the impact of our construction projects on
nature. Moreover, as a responsible corporate citizen, we renature the affected
land in many projects, thereby protecting the local flora and fauna.
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Reducing land use to a minimum
One of HOCHTIEF’s goals is to build new properties and facilities while
using as little land as possible. In addition, we have had great success in
rehabilitating brownfields and closing existing construction gaps. Our
specialists from various fields apply their expertise to revitalizing existing
buildings. We devise sustainable plans of use, analyze the profitability of
remediation projects, and prepare meticulous proposals on how to improve the
structure and energy efficiency of buildings and properties to boost their
quality while at the same time cutting energy consumption and costs. Our energy
and facility management experts additionally deliver financially attractive and
innovative contracting solutions as well as guaranteeing sustainable operation
and an efficient energy supply.
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