Holcim Granulats France

Objective

To conciliate the protection of a natural environment (under ZNIEFF 1* classification) with the limestone quarry activity nearby.

Context

The Malancourt quarry stopped activities about twenty years ago. The spontaneous revegetalisation of the former pit ground (dry grass with over than 20 different species of orchids) and the very active shrub recolonisation of the site rocks slides made it to be registered as a ZNIEFF 1.

The new quarry project near this former site led to elaborate solutions for the best possible coexistence between the two activities.

Solution

In order to implement compensatory measures along with the opening of the new quarry, Holcim bought 20 Ha of land included in the ZNIEFF 1.

The company has also undertaken to set up a management plan as soon as possible.

Result

In 2009, a fence and protective earth barriers against rock falls were set up at the foot of the former working faces.

In 2010, the site will be completely secured (to avoid quad bikes, moto-crosses… to enter the site).

Partners

A management plan will be drawn up by a steering committee formed by Holcim representatives and local expert on fauna and flora (LPO, ONF and CSL).

* Natural area of fauna, flora and ecology interest.