Hanson UK has released its 2014 performance and sustainability report highlighting major sustainability initiatives including the development of a solar farm at Ketton Cement Works in Rutland.

The report covers five overarching themes for the calendar year 2013 - people, carbon, water and biodiversity, waste and raw materials and systems - and sets out the company’s 2020 targets for each of these areas.

As part of Hanson's plan to increase the use of renewable energy to reach its 2020 targets of cutting carbon emissions by 10% per tonne of product, the company has invested in the eight megawatt solar farm at Ketton. Built on 55 acres adjacent to the limestone quarry, which supplies raw material to the cement works, the 38,500 solar modules will generate around 10% of the plant’s annual electricity consumption. A similar installation is being planned for Chipping Sodbury quarry in South Gloucestershire.

The report also details how waste to landfill has been cut by over 35.5% in the year – equivalent to over 4,000 tonnes. Other highlights include a reduction in environmental complains by 50% and mains water use per tonne of products down by 12.6%. The consolidation of waste disposal contracts, introduction of enhanced recycling systems and increased use of cement bypass dust, have all contributed to this step towards Hanson’s 2020 target of reducing non-process waste to landfill by 85%.

Paul Lacey, head of sustainability, said: “We still have a lot of work to do to achieve our 2020 targets, particularly those relating to energy and CO2. Employee engagement and involvement is critical and we will continue to promote the principles of working sustainably and embed them into everything we do.”