EnvironmentOur climate strategy.
We are committed to environmental protection and focus on targeted research and development. With our climate strategy, which is updated on an ongoing basis, we are making a contribution to mitigating the negative consequences of climate change. Whether it is a shortage of raw materials, the conservation of water and energy reserves or the threat to biodiversity: we are developing new approaches and solutions and taking responsibility.
Decarbonisation.
Systematic reduction of CO₂ emissions.
With energy-efficient construction projects and the consistent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, PORR is making a demonstrable contribution to the implementation of international climate targets. The strategic framework for this is provided by the Group-wide Decarbonisation Plan 2030 as well as the scientifically based targets set out in the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). Seven key areas of action are driving the transition to a climate-friendly construction industry.
Climate changeand its consequences.
With far-reaching consequences for current and future generations, climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time. The changes in the global climate are scientifically proven and show a clear trend: progressive global warming with devastating effects. This is particularly evident in the increase in extreme weather events, which are causing greater damage with increasing frequency.
We are aware of our responsibility for the climate: a significant proportion of CO2 emissions in the construction sector are caused by the high energy and resource requirements of raw material extraction and processing, the transport of building materials, construction site operations, administrative infrastructure, as well as waste disposal activities. Currently, most of the energy demand is met by fossil fuels.
Our broadcastTransparent and comprehensible.
Since 2024, PORR has been preparing an annual greenhouse gas balance sheet (GHG balance sheet) in accordance with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol). This allows us to measure our impact on climate change.
This balance sheet covers all greenhouse gas emissions along the value chain for which PORR is responsible. In addition to carbon dioxide (CO2), other greenhouse gases are also recorded in accordance with the Kyoto Protocol and reported as greenhouse gas equivalents (CO2e).
The greenhouse gas balance sheet forms the basis for setting emission reduction targets as well as implementing appropriate measures. It enables a detailed inventory of emissions, the identification of optimisation opportunities and continuous progress measurement.
With its official participation in the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) in December 2024, PORR reaffirms its long-term commitment to climate protection.
Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)
- Scope 1 and Scope 2 target: Reduction of absolute GHG emissions by 43% by 2030 (base year 2024). This target is in line with the 1.5-degree target of the Paris Climate Agreement.
- Scope 3 target: Reduction of absolute GHG emissions by 25% by 2030 (base year 2024). This target is based on the 2-degree target of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Seven leverson decarbonisation.
PORR has developed a detailed climate transition plan to achieve its decarbonisation targets by 2030. This serves as a strategic foundation for coordinated measures along the entire value chain. It takes into account legal requirements as well as technological innovations and market changes. The plan is continuously being developed on the basis of the latest scientific findings.
It focuses on seven key areas of action that have been identified through close cooperation between various departments within PORR. These areas concentrate on the company's main sources of emissions and define concrete steps for the gradual reduction of CO₂e emissions. Implementation is accompanied and supported by a strategic assessment of sustainable technologies.
Sustainable construction site.
Sustainable Construction Site
All measures come together on the construction site - this is where it is decided how consistently sustainability is put into practice.
This is why processes, standards and technologies are continuously being developed: for example, by expanding the charging infrastructure, using low-emission machines and achieving high recycling rates. In addition, life cycle assessments enable the project-specific recording and optimisation of emissions and the use of resources.
A Group-wide standard for sustainable construction sites - based on recognised certification systems - creates transparency, simplifies implementation and enables individualised services for clients. Sustainability thus becomes concrete and measurable along the entire construction process - for clients, the public and the environment alike.
This makes PORR an experienced implementation partner for EU taxonomy-compliant construction and CO₂e-reduced construction sites - traceable, project-specific and in line with regulatory requirements.
Supply chainIt starts with procurement.
PORR sets binding standards for its supply chain to promote the use of low-emission and recyclable building materials. Requirements relating to social responsibility, environmental compatibility and quality apply across the board. To ensure transparency in the supply chain, we maintain continuous dialogue with our suppliers and subcontractors.
Circularity.
Circular economy at PORR.
The linear model of ‘produce, consume, dispose’ has had its day – the future lies in the circular economy. PORR actively contributes to resource conservation by reusing materials and raw materials, thereby reducing its ecological footprint.
Biodiversity.
Biological diversity is an indispensable part of our natural resources – for present and future generations. Even though a construction company's direct influence on ecosystems is limited, responsible action begins even before project development.
MeasuresPORR.
In order to minimise our impact on ecosystems, any potential environmental effects of construction sites are identified in advance. Here are a few measures we take:
- Dust emissions are effectively reduced through the use of spray mist.
- Noise barriers and silencers provide noticeable relief for residents and wildlife.
- Dimmed, diffuse lighting systems are increasingly being used so as not to disturb nocturnal species such as bats.
- Wetlands near construction sites are irrigated as needed or compensated for by ecologically equivalent replacement areas. In addition, amphibian migration routes and replacement spawning grounds with floodplains promote the natural behaviour of the animals living there.
- As part of our projects, refuges for rare bird species, such as swifts in urban areas, are regularly created. Toad barriers and so-called ‘toad tunnels’ are also installed to create safe migration corridors.
- PORR has created orchard meadows on around 20,000 m² of previously unused land – an active contribution to promoting biodiversity.
Water
We are committed to efficient water use – both in the construction of our projects and in their subsequent use. Through continuous improvement of technologies and processes, we promote water-saving methods and operating resources. In order to minimise the consumption of fresh water, service water is used in many construction projects. Water circulation systems offer additional savings potential on construction sites and in operating facilities. Regular maintenance of sanitary facilities also contributes to reducing water consumption. At some locations, we also use rainwater basins.
The Water Policy is an important basis for our work. The water officer regularly reviews water consumption and progress in achieving targets together with local contacts as well as specialist departments in the PORR markets. This is used to derive measures for reducing consumption and recycling water – for example, to increase efficiency in construction methods or to integrate water cycles into recycling plants for building materials as well as into soil and gravel washing plants. If necessary, the catalogue of measures and the Water Policy are adapted and expanded.
Awareness raising
From 2025 onwards, PORR will be expanding its training programme specifically in the area of corporate sustainability. The aim is to strengthen knowledge of key sustainability topics such as decarbonisation, water management, biodiversity and the circular economy throughout the company.
By 2030, a comprehensive, target group-specific training concept is to be developed that reaches all relevant target groups with practical content and clear thematic focuses. In this way, we are not only promoting professional competence, but also jointly shaping the transition to a more sustainable corporate culture. Sharing knowledge means securing the future.