In a bold move toward sustainable development and environmental stewardship, Cemex, through its local affiliate Caribbean Cement Company (Carib Cement), celebrated the commissioning of a newly completed concrete road and recycled bricks pathway on Wednesday, July 23, at the Hope Royal Botanic Gardens.

The 600-square-metre roadway—constructed using repurposed heat-resistant kiln bricks—is the first of its kind in Jamaica and a shining example of circular innovation in infrastructure.

The official commissioning ceremony took place at The Annual Garden and featured a slate of speakers, including Lady Allen, Patron of the Gardens; Fayval Williams, Member of Parliament for St Andrew Eastern and Minister of Finance and the Public Service; Jorge Martinez, Managing Director of Carib Cement; and John Valentine, Managing Director of Jamaica Pre-Mix Ltd.

“This project is not just a ribbon-cutting,” said Williams, “it represents a global vision for sustainability and innovation. Hearing Mr Martinez speak about the process and purpose behind the recycled bricks brought home the true significance of what is being done here, not just for Jamaica, but for the world. We honour your efforts.”

Martinez, emphasised the global relevance of the initiative.

“This project holds special significance as it embodies our core values of sustainability, circularity, and regenerative practices,” he said. “These bricks—once discarded kiln linings—have been reborn as the foundation of this new road. It’s a clear example of how industrial by-products can be transformed into meaningful contributions for both society and the environment.”

With an investment of over J$5 million, the project was made possible through a dynamic collaboration among Carib Cement, Jamaica Pre-Mix, and the efforts of the finance minister. The initiative also included health and safety training for nine local workers, thus strengthening its impact at the community level.

Reflecting on the significance of the contribution, Valentine stated: “It is with great pride and a deep sense of accomplishment to be able to give back and to try to pay forward to these gardens by making a substantive contribution to the improvement of the gardens by assisting with the repairs of the roadway and to the property for the present and future generations to enjoy.”

Alfred Thomas, Chairman of the Nature Preservation Foundation, used the opportunity to issue a call to action for continued funding from the private sector and diaspora: “Hope Gardens is a national treasure, but its preservation and modernisation require continued investment. We are calling on more corporate partners, the diaspora and individuals to join us in revitalising this iconic green space for education, wellness, tourism, and environmental protection. This project proves what is possible when corporate citizenship meets public need.”

The Hope Gardens roadway project forms part of Cemex’s global Future in Action strategy and its Regenera business line, which seeks to reduce carbon emissions, promote sustainable practices, and regenerate value from industrial by-products.

For Hope Gardens, this new pathway is more than a road—it is a symbol of what is possible when corporate responsibility, innovation, and a shared vision come together for the public good.