Five out of six cement plants in Switzerland are expected to run out of limestone and marl over the next 10-15 years.As their existing quarries border areas with protected status as landscapes of national significance,they can not be readily expanded.
"We have to find a solution that enables a reduction in these areas,"says Georges Spicher,director of cement association cemsuisse.
However,the negotiations with the federal government,the cantons and communities are likely to be difficult,because these areas enjoy absolute protection.As a result this raises the question whether Switzerland can be supplied by domestically-produced cement at all.For Georges Spicher,the case is clear:"The cement industry is important for Switzerland.The housing market is growing.The country needs roads,bridges,schools and dams.Everywhere there is need for cement.In addition,several thousand jobs in Switzerland are at stake."
