Products & Materials : Building Trade Materials News
KNAUF PROUDLY SPONSORS THE CONSTRUCTING EXCELLENCE SECBE AWARDS 2024

KNAUF proudly sponsors the constructing excellence SECBE Awards 2024

Knauf is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of the Construction Excellence SECBE Awards 2024. The prestigious regional awards, renowned for its commitment to recognising excellence and innovation in the construction industry across London and the South East, are set to take place on June 27th 2024. As a returning sponsor,

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New Baumit Mobile Training Centre brings learning on the move!

New Baumit Mobile Training Centre brings learning on the move!

Baumit, a leader in energy-efficient and breathable insulation and façades, has developed a new Mobile Training Centre for its External Wall Insulation (EWI), Render and Plaster systems. The Mobile Training Centre is now open for bookings from merchants and tradespeople looking to discover more about the company’s innovative, breathable products

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Ruff weather damages dog shelter; local businesses step in to save the pups

Ruff weather damages dog shelter; local businesses step in to save the pups 

After hearing about the damage the North Nottinghamshire based animal rescue centre incurred during recent storms, local construction specialists PermaGroup, Mercial Garden Products Ltd, C Toyne & Son and Prism Construction joined forces to contribute to the rebuilding and repairs, providing materials, expertise and labour.  Noting the extensive repairs required

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British Gypsum Launches Innovation in BIM Technology

British Gypsum Launches Innovation in BIM Technology

British Gypsum, part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions, has launched a groundbreaking digital construction tool that enhances the use of its Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects. The first-of-its-kind, cutting-edge technology makes it easier to maintain the golden thread of information and acts as a reliable single source of truth. BIMlocker is

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Ibstock enhances concrete capabilities through the acquisition of Coltman Precast Concrete

Ibstock enhances concrete capabilities through the acquisition of Coltman Precast Concrete

Leading building materials manufacturer Ibstock has announced the further extension of its concrete offering with the acquisition of Birmingham-based Coltman Precast (Valerie Coltman Holdings Limited), one of the largest independent suppliers of precast concrete products. The purchase of Coltman’s 9.25-acre facility in Sutton Coldfield which manufactures hollowcore and staircases, has

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AG recognised as a market leader in sustainable construction

AG recognised as a market leader in sustainable construction

Leading paving and building manufacturer, AG Paving & Building Products, has reinforced its position as a market leader in sustainable construction by achieving Platinum status, the highest accolade available, in the 2023 Northern Ireland Environmental Benchmarking Survey, organised by Business in the Community (BITC). Recognising companies that go above and

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Latest Issue
Issue 324 : Jan 2025

Products & Materials : Building Trade Materials News

KNAUF PROUDLY SPONSORS THE CONSTRUCTING EXCELLENCE SECBE AWARDS 2024

KNAUF proudly sponsors the constructing excellence SECBE Awards 2024

Knauf is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of the Construction Excellence SECBE Awards 2024. The prestigious regional awards, renowned for its commitment to recognising excellence and innovation in the construction industry across London and the South East, are set to take place on June 27th 2024. As a returning sponsor, Knauf is particularly honoured to support the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) category. This category seeks to celebrate organisations and projects that demonstrate outstanding commitment to social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Knauf’s sponsorship of this category is testament to its own dedication to environmental and social responsibility. Knauf’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond sponsorship of the SECBE Awards. Knauf actively engages in initiatives designed to minimise environmental impact and support social causes by delivering to its customers, an accredited waste management service called ‘Knauf – Plasterboard Take Back Scheme’ through its partner Encore. Giving customers access to initiatives such as ProjectDIVERT, and Waste Wise Kids to divert waste from landfills and educate children on environmental conservation in local communities. The SECBE Awards has always been hallmarked by its rigorous judging process, ensuring that only the most deserving projects and organisations are recognised. As sponsors of the ESG category, Knauf is excited to be part of the judging panel and looks forward to hearing the inspiring stories and innovative solutions from participants. Emma Delaney, HR & Sustainability Director at Knauf, said: “We are eager to see the remarkable contributions and achievements within the ESG category. At Knauf, we are deeply committed to sustainability and corporate responsibility. Sponsoring the ESG category aligns perfectly with our company’s values and vision, and we are proud to support initiatives that promote positive change within our industry and communities.” Knauf extends its best wishes to all participants and invites industry colleagues to join them at the Annual Awards Ceremony Dinner on June 27th, 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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HGVC secures new contract to train 54 drivers for building suppliers

MKM Building Supplies Partners with HGVC and Govt Skills Bootcamp to train 54 Drivers

HGV driver training specialist HGVC has been appointed by leading builders’ merchant MKM Building Supplies to train 54 drivers under the Government’s Skills Bootcamps in HGV Driving. Under the contract, HGVC is delivering funded courses, with the Department for Education (DfE) providing a 70% contribution towards the cost of training, with MKM covering the remainder.  MKM Building Supplies is the UK’s largest independent builders’ merchants and is continuing to expand across the UK, reporting a 13% increase in annual revenue last year. The business wanted to upskill existing members of staff to meet growing customer demand and support continued business growth. MKM opted to outsource the training to HGVC, for a fully managed service making use of the HGV Skills Bootcamp funding available from the UK Government. HGVC was able to immediately onboard and book drivers for every element of licence acquisition, make use of government funding and offer training in locations across the UK. James Clifford, CEO of HGVC, said: “Many UK firms that rely on drivers need to ability to ramp up their training capacity quickly in response to business growth. The Government’s Skills Bootcamps allows businesses across any sector to do just that, and we’re delighted to be working with MKM Building Supplies in this programme.” Kerry Hunt, Learning & Development Business Partner, MKM Building Supplies added:“Additional drivers allow us to meet our customer needs more effectively, so this is a critical business issue. We found the whole experience to be very smooth, and the entire process very well organised. HGVC also provided access to monthly and on-request reporting to update the training team on the progress of each delegate, so we had full visibility of where each candidate was on their training journey”. HGVC offers high-quality HGV driver training across more than 400 centres throughout the United Kingdom. Offering both small and large-scale licence acquisition programmes, it is the provider of choice for many companies across the country. HGVC leads the Driver Academy Group (DAG), a consortium comprising workforce solutions group Manpower and trade body Logistics UK. DAG was recently awarded a full extension of its contract with the Department for Education (DfE) to provide training under the Government’s extended Skills Bootcamps in HGV Driving. The scheme will train and place into work thousands more HGV drivers across England over the coming year.  The DfE funding offers a lifeline for both individual candidates and employers dealing with budget constraints given the cost-of-living crisis. DAG has secured funding to train a further 2,160 individuals over the next 12 months. Within the new contract, DAG will deliver funded courses, offering employers a 70% contribution towards the cost of HGV driver training.  Since the launch of the Skills Bootcamps in HGV Driving in December 2021, the DAG has trained around 1,400 drivers. Some 1,070 trainees have now passed their practical test and are ready to drive.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New Baumit Mobile Training Centre brings learning on the move!

New Baumit Mobile Training Centre brings learning on the move!

Baumit, a leader in energy-efficient and breathable insulation and façades, has developed a new Mobile Training Centre for its External Wall Insulation (EWI), Render and Plaster systems. The Mobile Training Centre is now open for bookings from merchants and tradespeople looking to discover more about the company’s innovative, breathable products and services. The Baumit Mobile Training Centre is fitted out with space for practical demonstrations, meaning it provides similar hands-on application experience to that of the main Baumit Training Academies in Maidstone and Doncaster. Attendees have the convenience of learning about Baumit EWI, Render and Plaster skills in their local area, which means less time is spent away from their business. Attending a training session offers customers numerous benefits. This includes becoming a Baumit approved installer and being able to issue 10 or 25 year system warranties. Other benefits involve gaining an understanding of EWI best practice and receiving expert advice and ongoing support from the Baumit team. John Harrup, Head of Marketing at Baumit UK, said: “Our new Baumit Mobile Training Centre complements our two Academies in Maidstone and Doncaster, whilst offering a scaled down version that still provides local, hands-on learning. Our aim is to ensure Baumit customers have the utmost confidence when it comes to ordering and applying our EWI, Render and Plaster systems.” John added: “We encourage any merchant, stockist or contractor looking to learn more about these products to get in touch. Bringing training to where customers need it most will be a real game-changer for them. The combination of our best-in-class-trainers and practical demonstrations gives those who attend new skills that will help them drive their businesses forward. We are already attracting interest and bookings!” With recent increases in UK energy prices and demand for more sustainable building solutions, Baumit training is welcomed by customers looking to increase their business in thermal performance upgrades with homeowners, local authorities and social housing providers. Baumit External Wall Insulation offers property owners significantly improved energy efficiency, which, along with Baumit Render and Plaster, also offer all the benefits of being breathable. This allows moisture from inside the building to escape, creating a much more comfortable, healthier indoor environment. Attendance at the Baumit Mobile Training Centre costs £100. The one-day Advanced EWI Training Academies at Baumit in Maidstone and Doncaster cost £200. Following payment, customers are issued with a credit voucher for the full amount to be used against future Baumit purchases.  Places at both the mobile EWI Training Centre and Academies are in demand. Customers should check availability and book via www.baumit.co.uk/training For more information on the Baumit products and services, visit www.baumit.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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IDTechEx Finds CO2-Derived Concrete Can Build a Net-Negative Future

IDTechEx Finds CO2-Derived Concrete Can Build a Net-Negative Future

By Eve Pope, Technology Analyst at IDTechEx In a world with a growing population and a rapidly expanding construction sector to match, how do we prevent building homes from damaging our climate? Concrete is the second most consumed material on Earth, but its key ingredient, cement, is responsible for 7% of global anthropogenic CO2 emissions. The answer could come from thin air – CO2-derived building materials. The new IDTechEx report “Carbon Dioxide Utilization 2024-2044: Technologies, Market Forecasts, and Players” explores many ways to valorize captured carbon dioxide to create useful products. Among these, CO2-derived building materials showed particular promise due to performance improvements and cost-competitiveness, as well as sustainability benefits. IDTechEx forecasts over 170 million tonnes of captured CO2 will be utilized in building materials by 2044. Carbon dioxide can be utilized in concrete production in three different ways: injection of CO2 during curing of precast concrete, injection of CO2 during mixing of ready-mixed concrete, and formation of carbonate aggregates/additives Unlike some other carbon dioxide utilization pathways, such as the conversion to e-fuels, which requires large amounts of energy and green hydrogen (often prohibitively expensive), the basic mineralization chemistry underpinning the uptake of CO2 during concrete manufacturing is thermodynamically favored and less energy-intensive because stable metal carbonates are formed. These carbonates represent effectively permanent sequestration of CO2, so CO2-derived building materials double up as simultaneous carbon dioxide utilization and carbon dioxide storage. The process is compatible with many different sources of CO2. Valorizing waste In addition to waste CO2, solid waste streams can also be repurposed into new concrete using CO2 mineralization chemistry to form carbonates. For example, CO2-derived concrete players include Swiss company neustark, who uses the reaction of CO2 with demolished concrete to store carbon dioxide and produce concrete aggregate. Another aggregate producer, UK-based O.C.O Technology, instead uses CO2 and waste materials from industrial thermal processes. Meanwhile, building materials giant Heidelberg Materials has ongoing R&D into recycling concrete using CO2 to form a cement substitute. Steel slag is being explored by companies including Carbonaide and CarbiCrete as a cement replacement during CO2-aided curing. Additional revenue can be generated through waste disposal fees, with some CO2-derived concrete players reporting to having already achieved price parity with incumbents. Accelerating adoption Concrete production is typically low-margin, and willingness to pay a green premium is low. Therefore, widespread deployment of CO2-derived concrete will rely on CO2 utilization technology players, creating easy-to-adopt solutions that are minimally disruptive to existing manufacturing processes. In CO2-aided curing, some players have targeted retrofittable curing chambers. Elsewhere, plug-and-play and mobile unit solutions are also being commercialized. 2023 saw the release of several ASTM standards around CO2-aided curing, improving confidence in the safety and quality of CO2-derived precast concrete. While many CO2-derived building materials have yet to achieve price parity with conventional concrete, some customers are willing to pay a premium due to enhanced performance (such as higher strength and improved aesthetics). Going beyond net-zero The direct uptake of CO2 into concrete can be a net-zero process if the carbon dioxide is sourced from a fossil point source (such as a coal power station) or a net-negative process if biogenic or direct air-captured CO2 is used. In 2023, a collaboration between direct air capture (DAC) company Heirloom and CO2-derived concrete player CarbonCure stored CO2 captured from the ambient air into concrete for the first time. But is CO2-derived concrete still net-negative when considering the CO2 released during cement production? The formation of metal carbonates during CO2 mineralization can increase concrete strength and reduce the amount of cement needed. Alternatively, some carbonate additives can act as supplementary cementitious materials and replace cement. Therefore, according to IDTechEx’s analysis of players, several can produce carbon-negative concrete products. The permanent storage of CO2 into concrete enables players to sell high-value carbon dioxide removal credits on the voluntary carbon market. The way forward Although the production of CO2-derived concrete is more expensive than conventional concrete, revenue can be generated through waste disposal fees and carbon credit sales, with some players already reporting to achieve price parity. In the future, stronger regulatory support (for example, increased carbon pricing) will accelerate uptake further, with IDTechEx forecasting over 170 million tonnes of captured CO2 will be utilized in building materials by 2044. With carbon capture solutions for cement kilns continuing to develop, CO2 could be sourced from cement production, creating a circular solution. To find out more about the new IDTechEx report “Carbon Dioxide Utilization 2024-2044: Technologies, Market Forecasts, and Players”, including downloadable sample pages, please visit www.IDTechEx.com/CO2U. For more information on IDTechEx’s CCUS (carbon capture, utilization, and storage) market research portfolio, please refer to the IDTechEx “Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) Markets 2023-2043” and “Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) Markets 2023-2040: Technologies, Players, and Forecasts” reports Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Ruff weather damages dog shelter; local businesses step in to save the pups

Ruff weather damages dog shelter; local businesses step in to save the pups 

After hearing about the damage the North Nottinghamshire based animal rescue centre incurred during recent storms, local construction specialists PermaGroup, Mercial Garden Products Ltd, C Toyne & Son and Prism Construction joined forces to contribute to the rebuilding and repairs, providing materials, expertise and labour.  Noting the extensive repairs required to fix the centre, which was already 20 years old and had now started to leak, the quick-thinking suppliers and contractors rallied to provide the necessary materials to re-weatherproof the roof, equivalent to thousands of pounds of labour and supplies.  From putting out an appeal to completion of the repairs, the project took no more than 18 days.  Lee Moore, specialist products manager at PermaGroup, said: “We were more than happy to aid BARK when we heard about its unfortunate turn of luck during the storm. The work the team is doing is massively important and as part of the local community, we wanted to help.  “Now, the dogs staying in BARK’s care get to enjoy a whole new roof that’s warm, dry and will last a lifetime. The project just goes to show how easily and how quickly different businesses can work together when something as important as rescue pups are at stake.”  Canine champions BARK have been rescuing animals since 2005, when founders Elaine and Darren Shaw took in their first pound dogs to save them from being put down. Almost two decades on, they’ve saved hundreds of animals internationally, helping them thrive and find new homes.  Emily Beatson, marketing manager at Mercia Garden Products Ltd, said: “When we saw Babworth Animal Rescue Kennels needed help after the recent localised flooding, it was impossible not to want to help. At Mercia Garden Products, employees of ours have rescued dogs from BARK and given them lifelong homes, so we know firsthand the wonderful work they do with limited funding.   “The rescue required quality roofing materials to ensure the longevity of its kennels as well as timber for the structure itself. We were able to supply the timber for the kennel rebuild and knowing that our long-standing supplier PermaGroup’s EPDM would be the ideal solution, we called on the team for support. We are so grateful to Lee and PermaGroup for their generosity towards this cause.”  To donate or adopt one of the animals from BARK, visit its website here: https://www.barkonline.co.uk/home  To learn more about PermaGroup and its work, visit its website here: www.permaroof.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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British Gypsum Launches Innovation in BIM Technology

British Gypsum Launches Innovation in BIM Technology

British Gypsum, part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions, has launched a groundbreaking digital construction tool that enhances the use of its Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects. The first-of-its-kind, cutting-edge technology makes it easier to maintain the golden thread of information and acts as a reliable single source of truth. BIMlocker is a digital solution that provides an additional layer of security and support within British Gypsum systems.  BIMlocker is a free plugin security wrapper that enables users to increase accuracy and accountability across projects. It seamlessly integrates with Revit software, offering enhanced data validation capabilities to mitigate potential risks of specification data corruption, without compromising the design process. Architects, specifiers, and quality controllers will benefit from BIMlocker’s design preservation features. It safeguards the quality, integrity, and accuracy of system performance data, and provides peace of mind that British Gypsum product data remains faithful to the original system test substantiation throughout the design process. Paul French, Head of Digital Construction from British Gypsum said, “Demonstrating compliance, accountability, and integrity has never been more important within our industry. [WL1] Our new BIMlocker software provides reassurance as an invisible layer of security that acts as a valuable aid to construction supply chains in the Building Safety Act era. It eliminates any ambiguity and ensures complete transparency. “Anyone choosing BIMlocker can have complete confidence that they are managing risk in the design process. The supply chain demands accurate and reliable product data, and BIMlocker is the ultimate solution. making it effortless for everyone to uphold the highest standards and to make the right decisions.” British Gypsum is part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions and is committed to making a positive change in building design and design for the well-being of its end users. Constant research and development ensure that its solutions meet the current and future performance needs of all buildings, from simple to complex. It is committed to achieving net zero carbon by 2050, with checkpoint targets set by Saint-Gobain for 2030. To download BIMlocker, please visit www.british-gypsum.com/bimlocker Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Knauf proudly announces partnership with the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity

Knauf proudly announces partnership with the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity

Knauf is delighted to announce it is now an official company supporter of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity. The partnership underscores Knauf’s commitment to nurturing a positive impact within the construction sector by championing the wellbeing and mental health of industry professionals. The Lighthouse Charity is the UK’s only charity that is 100% dedicated to the emotional, physical and financial wellbeing of construction workers and their families. Its mission is to  ‘improve workforce welfare and wellbeing for this generation and the next.’ By becoming a company supporter, Knauf aims to contribute to the charity’s vital mission of promoting better mental health and wellbeing across the construction community. The collaboration gets to the heart of Knauf’s value ‘Menschlichkeit’ meaning humanity in German. It represents Knauf’s stance on ensuring everyone is treated with justice, integrity and respect. By becoming a company supporter of the charity, Knauf will be providing an annual charitable donation, meaning the charity can count on a sustainable income to allow the continuation and extension of its crucial services.   Colleagues at Knauf will be able to benefit from enhanced support from the charity, such as 24/7 telephone support from their Construction Industry Helpline, their self-support app and network of Lighthouse Beacons that offer a safe space for people to share their concerns and challenges. “We are excited to announce our partnership with the Lighthouse Charity, an organisation that shares our commitment to the wellbeing of those in our industry” said Emma Delaney, HR & Sustainability Director, Knauf UK & Ireland. “At Knauf, we believe in creating positive and supportive environments within the industry, and this partnership aligns seamlessly with our values. Together, we hope to make a meaningful impact on the lives of construction professionals ad contribute to a healthier, more resilient industry.” The collaboration with the Lighthouse Charity reflects Knauf’s dedication to corporate social responsibility and its recognition of the importance of mental health support in the construction field. By actively participating in initiatives that promote well-being and providing financial support where it’s needed most, Knauf aims to foster a culture of care and support within the industry. More information on the Lighthouse Charity can be found here. About Knauf Established in 1932, Knauf has evolved from a family business into a global force, operating in 90 countries with 41,000 employees. As a leading building products manufacturer, Knauf UK and Ireland started in 1988 with a state-of-the-art plasterboard factory in Sittingbourne, Kent, producing top-quality plasterboards and laminates. Following success, the Immingham Plasterboard Plant was built in 1990, to the same modern technical specification and has the capability to produce the complete range of Knauf plasterboards, thermal laminates and foil-backed plasterboards. In 1993, the Sittingbourne facility expanded with the UK Powder Plant, adding diverse products like Knauf Plasterboard Adhesive. In 2006, the Immingham plant expanded with energy-efficient technologies. The whole plant insulated, and two huge heat exchangers added, saving 10% of the plant’s energy requirements In 2013, Knauf unveiled The Cube, a modernist hub and training centre at the Sittingbourne site. The UK expansion continued in 2022 with the acquisition of a Newport, South Wales plasterboard plant, which will further increase plasterboard capacity. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Kingspan’s environmental leadership recognised with prestigious position on CDP A List

Kingspan’s environmental leadership recognised with prestigious position on CDP A List

Kingspan, the global leader in high-performance insulation and building envelope solutions, is delighted to have once again been awarded a coveted position on the Climate Change ‘A List’, published by CDP. The global environmental non-profit measures corporate transparency and performance on climate change on behalf of over 740 financial institutions with over US$136 trillion in assets. Of the 21,000 companies that were scored by CDP, Kingspan was one of just 346 to make the 2023 CDP Climate Change A List. Figures published by CDP also showed that only 10% of disclosing companies – Kingspan included – have renewable energy consumption targets established.1 CDP’s annual environmental reporting and disclosure assessment encourages companies to be transparent about their environmental impacts, risks and progress and provide data that demonstrate action and performance against climate-related targets. Those on the ‘A List’ have been recognised by CDP for their comprehensive climate strategies and targets and must also achieve a minimum of 4.2% emissions reductions annually. Bianca Wong, Global Head of Sustainability at Kingspan Group, said: “To limit global temperature rise to 1.5⁰C by the end of this century and achieve a net-zero emissions future, we all have a responsibility to be transparent about our progress and what we are doing to play our part. We have set ambitious 1.5⁰C-aligned GHG emissions reduction targets within our 10-year Planet Passionate programme. Our dedicated teams across our business work tirelessly to make continued annual progress towards our goals and our position on the CDP A List is fantastic recognition of this dedication and our journey so far.” In a bid to achieve net-zero carbon manufacturing by 2030, Kingspan has already achieved a 26% absolute reduction in its scope 1 and 2 emissions since 2020 and has made significant strides again in 2023, with the latest results soon to be published in its annual Planet Passionate report. The company also aims to reduce the CO2 intensity of its primary supply chain partners by 50% by 2030. This climate ambition is aligned with a 1.5⁰C trajectory and places increased emphasis on emissions reduction over offsetting, with targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The company also has measurable targets on harvesting rainwater, eliminating waste to landfill, increasing use of recycled materials and more. The number of companies choosing to disclose their sustainability targets and performance is on the rise as stakeholders seek confidence that companies are acting with longevity in mind. In 2023, CDP saw the volume of disclosures increase by 24% – a promising sign that more companies are taking all-important steps to close the gap between ambition and action.2 More information about Kingspan’s Planet Passionate programme can be viewed on the Kingspan Group website here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Ibstock enhances concrete capabilities through the acquisition of Coltman Precast Concrete

Ibstock enhances concrete capabilities through the acquisition of Coltman Precast Concrete

Leading building materials manufacturer Ibstock has announced the further extension of its concrete offering with the acquisition of Birmingham-based Coltman Precast (Valerie Coltman Holdings Limited), one of the largest independent suppliers of precast concrete products. The purchase of Coltman’s 9.25-acre facility in Sutton Coldfield which manufactures hollowcore and staircases, has the capabilities to expand Ibstock’s current range, whilst also increasing manufacturing capacity, which supports Ibstock’s Flooring and Structural concrete growth plans.  Established in 1972, Coltman Precast has grown into one of the UK’s largest suppliers of precast concrete products to the construction industry. The central location of Coltman’s Midland-based factory complements Ibstock’s existing flooring factories in the South (Sittingbourne) and the North (Dewsbury), enabling the business to competitively deliver a full portfolio of precast concrete products at a national level. Tim Wright, Commercial Sales Operations Director at Ibstock said: “The acquisition of a brand as well-known and respected as Coltman Precast is a significant milestone for Ibstock. We believe it further increases Ibstock Group’s ability to manage the short-term challenges which are being impacted by the wider economic climate, whilst helping us plan and work towards longer term success. “We look to the future with excitement as the unlocked potential of this acquisition is immense. Once we have fully integrated the Coltman Precast facility and team into our wider operations, the business will go from strength to strength.” With the acquisition of Coltman Precast, Ibstock’s Flooring and Structural Precast system now comprises: For more information, please visit: https://www.ibstock.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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AG recognised as a market leader in sustainable construction

AG recognised as a market leader in sustainable construction

Leading paving and building manufacturer, AG Paving & Building Products, has reinforced its position as a market leader in sustainable construction by achieving Platinum status, the highest accolade available, in the 2023 Northern Ireland Environmental Benchmarking Survey, organised by Business in the Community (BITC). Recognising companies that go above and beyond to reduce their environmental impact, the survey benchmarks companies that drive change through integrating sustainable practices into corporate strategies. The firm, who has recently released their Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy, was one of 125 organisations from a range of sectors in Northern Ireland to participate in the survey. AG was also awarded ‘Most Improved Performer’ at the awards ceremony recognising its continuous improvement commitment. AG previously reported a reduction in its Scope 1 & 2 emissions from its baseline of 2019 to 2022 by 53% – despite an increase in production volumes as the company faced unprecedented demand for its products. As well as this, the firm reduced its scope 3 emissions from 2022 by 10% – reinforcing its commitment to a greener future in construction. AG are continuously working to reduce the environmental impact of both its operations and the end product, which includes a recent investment of £5m into its operations enabling the firm to modernise its plant, equipment, and technology, driving the firm’s sustainability agenda. In addition to this the company have recently gained level 3 in the “Take 5” workplace wellbeing accreditation, recognition for their longstanding commitment improving both physical and psychological safety. Stephen Acheson AG’s CEO AG commented: “Sustainability is one of AG’s core values, we were delighted to achieve Platinum Status in this year’s Environmental Benchmarking Survey. As part of our commitment to a sustainable business, we strive to continuously reduce our environmental impact, whilst holding our people and local community at the centre of everything we do. These results further demonstrate our commitment to making long lasting and impactful changes.”  To find out more about AG, visit www.ag.uk.com.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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