Changing day to day habits key to Holcim Canada's contributions on Earth Day 2013

TORONTO, April 22, 2013 /CNW/ - In addition to participating in the many conservation and stewardship activities the company has organized in communities close to their operations, Holcim Canada employees will have the opportunity to learn about how the sum of changing behaviours and habits can contribute to making a big difference.

One key area of emphasis this Earth Day is around transportation and vehicle idling. The company operates some 2,000 vehicles across Ontario and Quebec, and is launching an awareness campaign to encourage and educate employees about reducing idle time as a means to reduce overall consumption and the emission of greenhouse gases. The company's corporate offices in Ontario and Quebec are also promoting energy conservation through simple acts, such as opening up blinds and working with natural light, and switching off office lights when not in use.

"Our employees take great pride in what they do individually and what we as a company do collectively, to give back to our communities and to be stewards of the natural environment. We, as a company, strongly believe in balancing the triple bottom line of people, planet and prosperity" said Bill Galloway, Senior Vice-President, Holcim Canada.

In Southern Ontario, the company's aggregates division, Dufferin Aggregates will plant close to 10,000 native trees and shrubs on its properties, in collaboration with volunteers, including local Girl Guides, Scouts Canada and community advisory panel members. The company strongly believes in educating youth about sustainable aggregate operations and continues to open its doors to host educational tours for local schools in Quebec and Ontario.

"Earth Week is another opportunity for our employees to be a part of building strong and healthy communities by partnering with local groups and organizations," added Bill Galloway. The Holcim Canada Mississauga Cement Plant and Ogden Point Quarry will raise employee awareness about local biodiversity and conservation with the help of the Credit Conservation Authority and Canadian Peregrine Foundation.  Over 90 employee volunteers at the Mississauga Plant will also volunteer for cleanup activities on site and within the community.

Globally, Holcim has been recognized as a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the ninth year in succession, categorized as a leading company in sustainability worldwide across industries.

About Holcim (Canada) Inc.

Holcim (Canada) Inc. is one of the country's largest vertically integrated building materials and construction companies. With 3,000 employees, Holcim Canada manufactures cement, aggregates and ready-mix concrete and provides construction services to many of Canada's largest infrastructure projects. It has a portfolio of brands, including Dufferin in Ontario and Demix in Quebec.

Holcim Canada is a member of Holcim Group, a Swiss-based multinational with operations in around 70 countries worldwide. A leading global brand, Holcim (VTX: HOLN.VX) is recognized for its long-term financial performance, its environmental leadership, corporate social responsibility and sustainable construction.

SOURCE: Holcim Canada Inc.