On the road to net zero, we are taking steps to minimise the amount of energy we use in the manufacturing of our Celcon Blocks.
We are part of the solution in creating sustainable net-zero buildings. We are committed to sustainability, wanting to positively impact people and planet through low carbon aircrete manufacturing.
Currently, around one fifth of the carbon emissions associated with producing our aircrete blocks is a direct result of our operations. The rest comes from our supply chain, and we are proud to be working closely with our suppliers who are well on the way to reducing their own emissions through innovative carbon reduction schemes.
But what are we doing to be part of a sustainable future, reduce our own energy consumption and minimise that 20%? Let’s get into it.
Way back in 2014 we invested in a wind turbine at our Pollington plant which generates around one third of the site’s electricity. Beyond that, all other power needed to manufacture Celcon Blocks is currently being acquired from 100% renewable sources.
In late 2022, new gas burners were installed at Pollington, replacing the previous 21-year-old models. These gas burners are an integral part of the boiler system used to generate the steam which is used to ‘bake’ the aircrete blocks in our autoclaves. So far, the new burners have shown a significant reduction in gas usage, saving up to 4% in consumption levels. This equates to reducing our CO2 emissions by more 600 tonnes annually.
An upgrade to our Borough Green plant is planned for late 2023. As part of the factory overhaul, the old gas burners will be swapped out for these more efficient alternatives. Once up and running, this will result in greater emissions reductions.
To ensure that we are prepared for future renewable energy sources, the new burners are compatible with hydrogen as a base fuel. We are in discussion with local government about the possibility of changing to hydrogen supply, once capacity becomes available.
Furthermore, we are investing in sustainable vehicles for our plants. Both Pollington and Borough Green will soon be benefiting from the addition of more electric forklifts to replace existing diesel trucks. Our current fleet of electric forklifts is set to double this year, with plans to switch to electric vehicles wherever possible before 2026. This will serve to further decrease our operational CO2 emissions.
These are just some of the ways that we are operating more sustainably today to achieve our carbon reduction goals. Find out more in the latest H+H International sustainability report.