Responsible sourcing of materials

At the very beginning of the supply chain we adopt policies for sourcing our raw materials aimed at efficient use of
resources and minimisation of environmental impacts.

 

Local sourcing
Preference is given to the use of locally sourced materials. This both supports the local economy and limits the impact due to transportation.

 

Recycled and secondary materials
Use of recycled, by-product and waste materials is made wherever possible without detriment to the quality and performance of our products. Prime examples include ash from coal-fired power stations, blastfurnace slag, recycled foundry sand, quarry fines and recycled concrete. During 2007, we will be establishing
more joint recycling operations to enable further direct use of recycled materials.

Responsible suppliers
As our own production processes are covered by an Environmental Management System in compliance with ISO 14001, it also natural that our raw material suppliers should also operate to similar standards.

This is already the case for many of our suppliers but, as a first stage, we have instigated a policy of only sourcing cement and dense aggregates from suppliers with certified Environmental Management Systems (EMS). In fact, 71% of materials are sourced from local sites from within the Tarmac Goup.

The remainder of our materials are in the main recycled and by-products covered by appropriate legislation and environmental protocols, often with full EMS.

Both BREEAM and Ecohomes assessment schemes, and the new Code for Sustainable Homes, include credits for using products and materials that can be demonstrated to be responsibly sourced.