We are actively reducing our GHG footprint and waste production, striving to be a leader in the transition to a low-carbon and low-waste society and promoting sustainable solutions in the delivery of our projects.
Our GHG Management Programme outlines a clear roadmap for achieving significant GHG reductions throughout our operations and supply chain, with a first focus on our Benelux and France business line. This not only benefits the environment, but also positions us for a future with increasingly stricter regulations.
We are committed to achieving net-zero emissions for our own operational activities (Scope 1 & 2) by 2050. To put this into action, we have set an ambitious interim target: a 57% reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions (relative to turnover) by 2030 compared to a 2019 baseline. This target applies to our Benelux-France region and is further cascaded down to individual companies included in our Organisational Boundary¹ with specific, measurable reduction goals.
We are dedicated to promoting and providing sustainable building solutions to our partners and clients. By sharing our expertise and resources, we help them achieve their own climate goals and contribute to a less energy-intensive future.
We recognise the vital role our supply chain plays in our overall GHG footprint. We actively encourage and incentivise our partners, particularly building material producers with high emission potential, to reduce their own emissions (Scope 3) and ultimately achieve net-zero by 2050.
¹ Organisational boundary: nv BESIX sa, BESIX Nederland, BESIX Environment, Franki Foundations and its subsidiaries Franki Grondtechnieken BV in The Netherlands and Atlas Fondations in France, BESIX Infra, BESIX Infra Support, BESIX Unitec, and its subsidiaries, BESIX Unitec Nederland and BESIX Connect.
We prioritise environmental responsibility at every stage of our operations, from design to construction and beyond. By adhering to strict standards, promoting resources efficiency and reducing waste, we aim to protect and preserve natural ecosystems in all the regions in which we operate.
We conduct environmental impact assessments before construction, engaging local stakeholders and ecological experts to identify sensitive habitats and species.
Recognising the importance of healthy ecosystems, we integrate biodiversity considerations into our projects wherever possible. This helps to ensure the long-term sustainability of nature.
Where possible, we use nature-based solutions (like green roofs, vegetated walls, or water treatment wetlands) to protect local ecosystems. We also implement strict site management plans to minimise disturbances and, once a project is complete, we work to restore habitats to their natural state.
At BESIX, we are actively implementing strategies that promote the efficient use of resources throughout the construction lifecycle. This minimises waste and fosters a more sustainable approach to building.
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.
*Natura 2000: network of protected areas covering the most valuable and threatened species and habitats in the territory of the European Union.
At BESIX, we prioritise waste prevention, reuse and recycling, in line with the waste hierarchy.
We focus on the efficient and responsible use of natural resources, waste minimisation and the promotion of sustainable materials to drive the transition towards a circular economy. Our goal is to retain the value of materials throughout their lifecycle and reduce our reliance on landfill disposal:
We adhere to the waste hierarchy, giving priority to prevention, reuse, recycling and recovery over disposal.
We encourage the use of recycled materials and promote sustainable procurement practices throughout our supply chain.
We collaborate with clients to explore innovative approaches like urban mining, green concrete and circular business models.
Key initiatives include fleet electrification, sustainable office transitions and participation in innovative energy projects. These efforts underscore our commitment to meeting our 2030 emissions reduction targets.
In 2019, BESIX Foundation and the QHSE teams launched the annual BESIX CleanUp Day initiative to foster a culture of environmental responsibility. Employees worldwide participate in cleaning the environment around their workplace (site or office), demonstrating their commitment to the community and environment. The winning photo from the CleanUp Day competition receives a donation from our Foundation to support a charitable organisation dedicated to environmental and biodiversity protection.