The aggregates extraction industry is making a major effort to apply the basic principles and concepts of sustainable development in its open cast mining operations and processing plants.

The aggregates sector provides a service to society by supplying these natural resources which, due to their numerous applications both in industry and, above all, in construction, are essential for economic development.

The integration of environmental, social and economic aspects in the various stages of the extraction process, treatment to obtain aggregates with the required quality standards and transport to consumption centres, highlights the determination of this industry to improve, day by day, in the achievement of the set objectives.

The examples given here have been recognised in Spain and, in several cases, have been selected to participate in the European Union.