Organizations in the natural stone industry promote sustainability at the largest ESG event in Brazil

From June 24 to 28, the state of Espírito Santo will be the stage for “Sustentabilidade Brasil”, the largest sustainability and ESG conference in the country. During the event, the organizations Centrorochas, Rochativa, and Sindirochas will promote the ‘green’ initiatives that were implemented and are carried out by the natural stone sector.

The event will take place at Pavilhão de Carapina, in the city of Serra. It will bring together around 30 thousand people to discuss and promote sustainable practices in several fields. The participation of the stone industry reflects the segment’s commitment to sustainability and the search for innovative solutions that offer significant environmental benefits. Learn about some of the sustainable initiatives that were already implemented by the natural stone industry:

Water reuse

One of the main highlights among the sustainable initiatives in the natural stone sector is water reuse. More than 95% of the water required for the production process is reused, thanks to an efficient closed water circuit.

Renewable energy

The natural stone industry also stands out for its use of renewable energy. Many companies have already implemented self-generated solar energy projects, besides purchasing energy on the free market, from entirely renewable sources. This transition to clean energy reduces the carbon footprint of the sector and promotes energy sustainability.

Reduction of CO2 Emissions

Compared to other cladding materials, the production of natural stones has one of the lowest CO2 emission rates, according to a study published in 2023 by the German association Deutscher Naturwerkstein-Verband (DNV).

‘Green’ Iron Ore

Another innovative initiative is the use of marble powder as an input in the production of iron ore pellets. This process reduces the amount of waste and leads to a circular economy, by transforming by-products into valuable materials for other industries.

FiBRO

Fino do Beneficiamento de Rochas Ornamentais (FiBRO) [Fine from the Processing of Natural Stones] is a by-product of stone processing that is transformed into raw material for several products. This practice reduces waste disposal and also encourages innovation by finding new uses for the materials arising from the production process.

Recycling and Total Use

Natural stone is a material that can be easily recycled, even after long periods of use. The sector has the potential to use all materials, whether through rock flour, soil remineralization or use in the paving process and construction. Rock waste is reused in agriculture to enrich the soil, and by-products are used as raw materials in building and urban planning materials.

Social Responsibility: the importance of Rochativa

Corresponding to the “S” in the acronym ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), the Associação de Atividades Sociais do Setor de Rochas Ornamentais do Espírito Santo (Rochativa) [Association of Social Activities of the Natural Stone Industry in the State of Espírito Santo] represents the social aspect of the segment. Founded 17 years ago, the organization is an initiative that brings together natural stone companies in social projects, benefiting more than 15 thousand children and teenagers with culture, sports, and health programs. This work is carried out with the support of more than 130 companies and 30 ambassadors, spread over the Southern, Metropolitan, and Northern regions of Espírito Santo.

Rochativa runs several projects, such as ballet, capoeira, jiu-jitsu, and musicalization, besides providing psychological and dental care. To celebrate its achievements, Camerata Rochativa will put on a special performance on Tuesday, at noon, in the Food Court of the fair “Sustentabilidade Brasil”.

For further information about the full schedule of the event, visit https://sustentabilidadebrasil.com/sustentabilidade-brasil-confira-a-programacao/.