Communities
At Holcim, we are fully committed to creating a positive social impact in the communities where we operate.
Addressing a vital need for people
By 2030, an estimated 3 billion people will lack access to adequate housing. Holcim is partnering with communities and governments in numerous countries to address this pressing global issue.
Together, we are helping raise the standard of living for people with low incomes and contributing to a far-reaching impact for society as a whole.
Our experts develop innovative low-carbon solutions that bridge the gap in affordable housing and infrastructure. This benefits people and communities globally while contributing to our business success.
Taking action for positive social impact
Our journey to build progress for people and the planet involves a strong commitment to delivering positive social impacts over time.
Access to adequate housing
Collaborating with NGOs like Habitat for Humanity and Build Change, we address the global housing gap affecting 1.6 billion people. Additionally, we engage in emergency relief initiatives to help communities reconstruct after natural disasters.
Building skills
To improve living standards, we offer skills training to empower local communities. From upskilling programs designed to support families with no steady livelihoods, to preparation for students to become future leaders, Holcim is committed to fostering positive social impact.
Female empowerment
Holcim is committed to equal opportunities. We support women by offering free educational resources like training in construction fundamentals, tiling, brick-laying, safety and entrepreneurship. We also facilitate programs that support rural women by helping them cultivate sustainable income opportunities.
Education
Education is key to empowering communities. Holcim engages in projects to create and enhance school infrastructure. A safe, sustainable place to learn helps literacy rates improve and opens the community to new opportunities.
DURABLE, DIGNIFIED HOMES
How can we best provide safety, comfort and well-being for low-income or displaced communities? The Essential Homes project – with Holcim’s sustainable building solutions inside – is designed by the Norman Foster Foundation to answer this question.
After the unveiling of a first prototype at the Venice Biennale in 2023, a new scalable prototype for real-world use was presented at the 2024 Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in London. Following an in-depth survey of local housing conditions and the environment, it has been developed for rollout in Costa Rica in 2025.
“Working with Holcim, we are demonstrating that we can deliver sustainable and dignified housing that has real quality.”
How we are making it happen
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