ESG Report

The construction sector has a crucial societal role in providing places to live, work and relax. However, in terms of sustainability, this sector has a significant impact on the use of natural resources, waste production and power consumption. For this reason, we must incorporate long term sustainability into what we build. Our companies do not want to contribute to a planet that is becoming unliveable. We want to actively participate and contribute, instead of standing by the side lines.

The activities, products and services we offer within our companies have an intrinsically sustainable value. Thanks to our climate- neutral and self-sufficient ambitions, we build with minimal impact and to high standards; we renew and renovate polluting and outdated buildings so that they comply with current standards; we install innovative and sustainable energy and climate control systems that consume less; and we actively engage in urban development to make our towns more sustainable and liveable with more greenery and urban diversity. 

Each of our companies analyses the sustainability of its operations, makes ongoing improvements and develops new services tailored to sustainability problems. They also have a crucial role in advising customers on the most sustainable solutions to their problems. Ciril has developed a vision on Future Fit development for cities, Democo has launched Democo Green Desk to streamline its sustainability efforts and is working on Self-Sufficient Construction Sites, our technical services companies have pooled their resources into “The Energy Circle” with the ambition to expediate Belgium’s energy transition by making large, energy-consuming buildings more sustainable, and Deholi is focusing on total renovations of outdated buildings and large offices. 

We also take responsibility within our operations to reduce our emissions and impact. This includes introducing a management system according to the CO2 performance ladder, making our machinery more sustainable, electrification of our vehicle fleet, sustainable commuting, etc.

We know that we are stronger as a team in which everyone is aware of their responsibilities and takes them seriously. We regularly update all our stakeholders and employees on the progress of our targets and specific steps within each area of our business. Moreover, as a significant player in the sector, we believe we can make a positive difference – both with our own projects and those of our partners and competitors. That is why Democo Group is committed to research and evaluation, and we turn this knowledge into innovative pilot projects that can inspire others.

To reduce our impact on natural resource consumption and waste production, we have included circularity as one of our strategic focal points with the ambition to recycle and recover as much as possible within the life cycle of buildings. The principles of circular construction and development offer guidelines for developing and improving the interests of people, nature and the economy in step with each other. This covers decisions throughout a building’s lifecycle (production, use and end-of-life phases), from development to demolition.

All our companies have one or more roles in this cycle, mapping out where materials come from, how they are applied and used, and what options are available afterwards. Wherever possible, we use circularly sourced materials in our projects. Today, an entirely closed cycle without waste is still a very ambitious aim, but it is a clear target. 

In alignment with our commitment to shaping a sustainable and inclusive society, our group recognizes its pivotal role in the development of buildings and infrastructure that transcend mere physical spaces to contribute significantly to human well-being and planetary health. We have resolved to actively contribute to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to underscore our dedication to this cause. These goals, established in 2015 as a global blueprint for a more sustainable future by 2030, encompass critical areas such as climate action, gender equality, conservation of nature, and human rights. In 2023, we embarked on a strategic evaluation across our companies to identify specific SDGs where we can make the most impact. Our focus gravitates towards themes like ‘Sustainable Cities and Communities,’ ‘Climate action,’ ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’ and ‘Decent work and economic growth’ – areas where we aim to be more active and distinguish ourselves. We also extend our efforts in our companies and our supply chain on matters such as equality, education, working conditions, safety, and energy.

With each of our companies, including Democo Group, we have set and implemented actions to mitigate the adverse effects of our operations on the environment and society. This includes investments in sustainable construction materials and technologies, reducing waste, and enhancing the energy efficiency of buildings. Moreover, we are committed to fostering better collaboration with communities, including governments, NGOs, and other businesses, by investing in local development projects and working together to create jobs and strengthen local economies. Our ambition is to inspire and lead in sustainable construction and development, making a positive impact on people and society. Through these endeavors, we strive to not only meet but exceed our SDG ambitions, demonstrating our commitment to a sustainable future.