You will all likely be aware of the sensitive issues surrounding climate change and global warming and will understand how seriously we take these subjects CEMEX is dedicated to improving the sustainability of its operations, with a clear and industry-leading Climate Action strategy.
These emotive issues and the nature of activism in this regard has been commonplace in the UK public arena for a sustained period particularly since the large-scale London based actions in April 2019, when Extinction Rebellion very effectively highlighted their cause, bringing London to a virtual stand-still.
Whilst actions like these have been frustrated due to pandemic, the emotions and personal endeavours behind the success of such activism remain tangibly high.
We must remain aware and vigilant to the possibility of protest related action taking place at CEMEX, sites, land and/or delivery points. In particular, all those working our operations should be alerted that to mark the emergence from the lockdown, Extinction Rebellion are planning a nationwide mass-trespass event on 24 April 2021, referred to as the National Day of Trespass. The event calls for participants to trespass wherever and however they can.
Whilst there is no information suggesting CEMEX will be directly targeted, colleagues are asked to remain vigilant to the potential for trespass or protest type action developing. Please ensure you have checked your boundaries to make sure they are safe in advance of this date and alert your teams to the increased risk on this day.
As we gradually emerge from pandemic controls and the promise of warmer weather approaches, it is important colleagues are made aware of the potential for activism and the possibility of action in opposition to our industry. Much publicity surrounds projects such as the Government’s HS2 initiative and activists have consistently targeted HS2 sites for many months, even throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
CEMEX Global Security and ERM have developed a generic contingency plan in relation to the potential for protest at or near our sites. All staff need to be aware of this plan and what it requires of each of us in the event of protest related action at a CEMEX site. A copy of the plan can be found in the download section of the UK News website here
If you have any questions or concerns please contact Colin Jones or John Sweeting in the UK Security team.