Environmental management

At BESIX we prioritise environmental responsibility in all our operations. We aim to protect the environment, and using resources responsibly.

Protecting the Environment

To achieve our environmental goals, we take a comprehensive approach that includes:

Proactive Impact Management: Before starting any project, we develop detailed impact management plans to:

identify potential risks and develop tailored mitigation strategies for each project
assess potential effects on the natural environment and resident species
address unique challenges and minimise disruption

Operational Excellence: Our robust QHSE framework ensures environmental considerations are integrated into every phase of our operations. We collaborate with suppliers and subcontractors to uphold the highest environmental standards.
Proactive QHSE Culture: A strong QHSE culture permeates our organisation, with environmental considerations integrated into all decision-making processes. We also hold our subcontractors to the same high standards.
Environmental Education and Training: Our employees and stakeholders are equipped with the knowledge and tools to protect the environment.
Innovation and Collaboration: We partner with environmental experts and invest in research to develop innovative solutions and adopt best practices.
Continuous Improvement: Regular monitoring, evaluation, and reporting enable us to refine our environmental performance and identify opportunities for enhancement.

Water Stewardship

Water scarcity is a growing global challenge.

At BESIX, we prioritise water conservation and responsible management throughout our operations.

Sustainable Water Management on Construction Sites

On our construction sites, we focus on:

Water Reuse: We prioritise the reuse of wastewater, particularly concrete wash water. Sedimentation tanks are employed to clean this water for recirculation. Additionally, rainwater harvesting systems are used to collect and reuse clean water.
Water Treatment: When necessary, portable water treatment systems are deployed to neutralise pH levels and ensure safe discharge into the sewerage system. This approach has been successfully implemented on Belgian sites and documented as a best practice.

Water Solutions Beyond Construction

Our commitment to water stewardship extends beyond our construction sites. We are actively involved in providing comprehensive water management solutions, including:

Water and Wastewater Treatment: We design and build state-of-the-art treatment plants to address the increasing demand for clean water and wastewater management.
Hydropower: We harness the power of water through hydroelectric installations, promoting renewable energy and sustainable development.

By integrating water conservation and management into our core business, we contribute to water security and environmental protection.

Protecting Biodiversity

Biodiversity loss is a critical global challenge. The construction industry, while essential, can significantly impact ecosystems. BESIX is committed to minimising its environmental footprint and protecting biodiversity.

We prioritise the preservation of natural habitats, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas like Natura 2000 sites. By integrating biodiversity considerations into our project lifecycle – from initial planning to post-construction – we can identify potential impacts early on and implement effective mitigation strategies.

Our comprehensive approach includes:

Rigorous Environmental Impact Assessments: Identifying potential impacts on biodiversity and developing tailored mitigation strategies.
Innovative Biodiversity Protection: Collaborating with experts to implement cutting-edge solutions such as habitat restoration, species protection, and the use of sustainable materials and technologies.
Community Empowerment: Engaging local communities through training programmes focused on combating invasive species and fostering a greater appreciation of wildlife and nature.

Adherence to Global Standards

We adhere to international standards and guidelines, such as those set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), to ensure best practices in marine environments.

Protecting Marine Environments

Our marine projects demand specialised approaches to safeguard marine life: Expert collaboration: We work closely with biologists and oceanographers to understand and protect marine ecosystems. Marine mammal protection: We implement robust marine mammal observation programmes, including visual and acoustic monitoring, to minimise disturbances during construction activities. Our protocols align with global best practices to safeguard whales and dolphins. Habitat restoration: We prioritise habitat restoration and rehabilitation post-construction, contributing to the overall health of marine ecosystems.

Protecting terrestrial biodiversity

On land, we focus on: Habitat preservation: We implement measures to protect wildlife, including fencing, habitat restoration, and avoiding sensitive periods for construction activities. Species monitoring: We conduct surveys to identify and protect endangered or protected species. Invasive species management: We actively combat invasive species to protect local biodiversity.

About this project

Circularity and Waste minimisation

At BESIX, we prioritise waste prevention, reuse, and recycling, in line with the waste hierarchy.

Our goal is to retain the value of materials throughout their lifecycle and reduce our reliance on landfill disposal:

Waste hierarchy: We adhere to the waste hierarchy, giving priority to prevention, reuse, recycling, and recovery over disposal.
Sustainable procurement: We encourage the use of recycled materials and promote sustainable procurement practices throughout our supply chain.
Innovative solutions: We collaborate with clients to explore innovative approaches like urban mining, green concrete, and circular business models.

Clean Up Days: Fostering a Culture of Responsibility

In 2019, BESIX Foundation and the QHSE teams launched the annual Clean Up Days initiative to foster a culture of environmental responsibility. Employees worldwide participate in cleaning public spaces, demonstrating our commitment to our communities. The winning photo from the Clean Up Day competition receives a donation from our Foundation to support a charitable organization dedicated to environmental and biodiversity protection.