CO₂ capture and storage
To accelerate our journey towards climate neutrality, Vandersanden is investing in technologies to capture and permanently store CO₂.
The brick production process requires very high temperatures, for which fully fossil-free alternatives are not yet widely available. That is why we are also focusing on solutions that reduce CO₂ emissions in a sustainably. A concrete example of this is Pirrouet®, our circular and CO₂-negative brick. With this innovation, CO₂ is not only captured but actually used as a raw material.
Pirrouet®: Carbon-negative and circular
Our Pirrouet®-bricks are not only produced using green electricity; during their production process, they permanently store CO₂. On balance, this results in negative CO₂ emissions.
These bricks are cured through carbonation: a natural chemical process in which CO₂ binds to calcium-containing materials. This bond is permanent, meaning the pavers permanently retain CO₂. One tonne of Pirrouet® pavers permanently stores approximately 60 kg of CO₂.
Furthermore, the bricks are made from 80% circular raw materials such as carbinox and stinox, derived from mineral waste streams from the steel industry. Following a recycling process, these are reused for the production of Pirrouet®. The remaining 20% is a combination of sand, water and, where applicable, colour pigments.
Neeroeteren: 11.4 tonnes of CO₂ captured
= 475 trees / year
The renovation of the Cultural Centre in Neeroeteren is a prime example of how sustainable building materials and collaboration contribute to a greener future. This project is one of the first in Belgium to use Vandersanden’s innovative Pirrouet® brick.
Almere: 42.5 tonnes of CO₂ stored
= 1,767 trees / year
In Almere, we are working with the Heutink Group and SOME architects to build 60 homes that combine sustainability and care for people and the environment, and innovation. Together, we are delivering a project that permanently stores 42,500 kg of CO₂.
Climate neutral by 2050
Our efforts in energy efficiency form part of a broader approach to structurally reducing our carbon footprint. Through four strategic pillars, we are working with partners, customers and colleagues towards a future-proof, climate-neutral brick industry by 2050.
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