EDITOR ’ S CHOICE
EVER LASTING STRENGTH
TAKE COMFORT IN THE 150 + YEARS DESIGN LIFE OF CLAY BRICK , WITHSTANDING THE HARD WEAR AND TEAR OF MULTIPLE GENERATIONS
The UK brick manufacturing industry is committed to sustainability and the drive towards net zero carbon emissions . Keith Aldis , chief executive of the Brick Development Association ( BDA ), highlights the sustainable nature of brick , as a natural , quality , and maintenance-friendly material that is durable during all phases of its life cycle . Bricks also have the ability to accumulate heat , which can help to store and radiate energy back when necessary , making them ideal for energy-efficient buildings .
Despite the sustainable nature of brick , the UK ’ s leading brickmakers recognize the challenges posed by carbon emissions and climate change . Members of the BDA are committed to a programme of genuine sustainability and a drive towards net zero targets . For example , Forterra PLC has invested £ 95m in a new super plant at its Desford site in Leicestershire , which will be capable of producing 180m bricks per year and will significantly reduce the carbon impact of each brick manufactured on the site compared to its current factory . Similarly , leading brickmaker Ibstock aims to create the world ’ s first Net Zero brick factory for Scope 1 and 2 emissions .
The BDA is committed to implementing five over-arching policy aims to reduce waste and increase sustainability . These include developing a better understanding of waste generation across the industry , minimizing waste produced , and single-use plastic packaging consumed , developing partnerships to cultivate a high level of awareness of waste minimization and management throughout the industry , establishing the contribution that the industry can make to the circular economy , and protecting the environment by ensuring that the industry is a good steward of the materials it uses .
The BDA is committed to implementing five over-arching policy aims to reduce waste and increase sustainability .
These aims are fully espoused by all BDA members . Ultimately , responsible brickmakers are passionate about consumers being able to make informed choices about the credentials and provenance of their products . They are relentless in looking for more sustainable ways of working so they can look after the planet for future generations . And they are proud to do so .
www . brick . org . uk
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