Preserving Biodiversity in Neuf-Brisach

At Constellium’s Neuf-Brisach plant in eastern France, industrial development and biodiversity are not seen as opposing forces, but as responsibilities to be managed together.

As part of the construction of our new recycling center, biodiversity studies were conducted to identify the potential effects of the project on local ecosystems and determine the measures needed to avoid, reduce, and compensate for these impacts.

Although Constellium’s activities do not typically require intensive land use, any transformation of a site can affect local flora and fauna. At Neuf-Brisach, this meant anticipating potential impacts before construction began and adapting the project accordingly.

Protecting local wildlife during construction

A series of reduction measures were implemented before and during the construction work.

A specific protocol was established before cutting down cavity trees that could potentially shelter bat colonies. To provide alternative habitats, 60 nesting boxes were installed across the site.

Particular attention was also given to amphibians. In Alsace, the agile frog (Rana dalmatina) is a familiar species, but its habitat can be disrupted by construction work. To protect it, 600 meters of amphibian tarpaulins were installed around the construction area, preventing frogs from entering the site and laying eggs in places where they could be destroyed.

Two hibernacula were also created, providing quiet shelters where small animals can rest and overwinter.

In addition, biodiversity awareness booklets were distributed to external contractors working on the project, helping ensure that the measures were understood and respected throughout the construction period.

Restoring and enhancing habitats

Alongside these reduction measures, the project included actions to compensate for its impact and improve the ecological resilience of the site over time.

Half of the existing poplar trees were replaced with a more diverse mix of species, including oak, lime, maple, and white and black poplars. Protective fencing was installed around the new trees to support their establishment.

Invasive plants were removed, while native vegetation was preserved and maintained. Barley was also sown as natural ground cover to help prevent invasive species from growing back.

To compensate for the loss of several small ponds, a larger pond was created and designed to encourage the development of wetland vegetation, providing a new habitat for plants and wildlife.

Supporting biodiversity over the long term

The site’s approach has continued to evolve since the construction work.

Some areas are now intentionally left unmown, allowing grasses and wildflowers to grow naturally. These spaces provide food and shelter for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, as well as for insects, birds, and small mammals.

Reducing mowing can also help limit soil erosion and decrease the energy used for grounds maintenance, demonstrating how relatively simple changes can generate several environmental benefits.

At the same time, paths and shared outdoor areas continue to be maintained so that employees can safely access and enjoy their surroundings.

The Neuf-Brisach project demonstrates that biodiversity is not a one-time consideration linked only to the construction phase. It requires continued attention and practical action to protect, restore, and enhance local ecosystems over the long term.