A small ecological footprint in a circular economy
The circular economy is a broad concept. A central pillar of it is that we must be thriftier with the things Mother Nature has to offer. We must take measures to minimise further global warming by reducing the output of greenhouse gasses like CO2.
The construction sector consumes huge amounts of natural resources and contributes fairly heavily to greenhouse gas emissions. Based on international agreements by the national government, goals have been formulated that have a major impact on the construction sector. In 2050, we must have a fully circular economy. An economy without waste, in which everything revolves around reusable resources.
Are these ambitious goals actually feasible? To us, this is no reason to wait and see. There are already a number of initiatives underway, such as:
- Applying concrete granulate in fresh concrete;
- Recycling our own production waste;
- New products in our portfolio based on secondary aggregates;
- Production of prefabricated house shells;
Always looking for the building materials of the future
In addition, we actively research the building materials of the future, both independently and together with our industrial partners. Examples include the development of new, high-quality building materials by upcycling industrial by-products and through new bio-based building elements.
We don’t just do this to develop new products. On the contrary. An increasing number of products come with the relevant environmental indicators, so the customer is not only informed about technical matters, but also the environmental performance of the products. Because many of our activities take place regionally and we make use of optimal transport, our logistical footprint is relatively small. Furthermore, by actively doing our part, sometimes with other partners in the supply chain, we also try to solve any obstacles we encounter.
In short, here too we strive for a circular economy.
Transition to a more circular construction economy
Our group’s central values – continuity through balance, loyalty, a down-to-earth attitude, commitment and innovative entrepreneurship – fit nicely with the core values a circular economy demands. At De Hoop Terneuzen, new developments are strongly encouraged. At least if they really are circular. So-called ‘greenwashing’ is a no go.
Within our group, we aim to do business with a heart for society. The transition to a more circular construction economy will take a significant amount of effort, and it will only work when we use the full strength of our organisation. To achieve this, we continually look for the most innovative product solutions that fit within a circular economy. That is our strength.