Glass for Europe applauds the European Commission’s recent communication on Advanced Materials for Industrial Leadership, recognizing the pivotal role of glass in enhancing the well-being of buildings through research and innovation.
The EC’s strategic vision for advancing material research, innovation, and production within the EU underscores the importance of maintaining leadership in this sector, achieving strategic autonomy, and meeting the objectives of the Green Deal.
The acknowledgment of glass as a key material deserving support for research and innovation to enhance building well-being is a significant step forward. Among the various sectors highlighted for boosting research and innovation in advanced materials, glazing materials stand out for their potential impact:
- Improving Energy Efficiency: High-performance glazing can significantly enhance energy efficiency in buildings, contributing to sustainability goals and reducing carbon emissions.
- Enhancing Circularity and Environmental Performance: Glass, particularly flat glass, offers infinite recyclability, presenting opportunities to increase end-of-life glass recycling in closed-loop systems. This promotes circularity and addresses environmental concerns in the construction and mobility sectors.
- Promoting Renewable Energy: Innovations in solar glass and mirrors can play a crucial role in advancing renewable and low-carbon energy conversion and generation. These developments are essential for revitalizing the EU’s solar PV value chain.
The potential of glass as a sustainable material for a carbon-neutral future has been underscored by leading voices like the journal Nature. Glass for Europe’s members are committed to driving research, innovation, and production in advanced glass to support the EC’s objectives and contribute to the realization of the Green Deal’s ambitions.
In conclusion, the recognition of glass as a vital material for advancing sustainability and well-being in buildings is a positive development. By harnessing the potential of advanced glass technologies, we can pave the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future in Europe. Glass for Europe looks forward to collaborating with stakeholders to drive innovation and progress in the advanced material industry, aligning with the goals of the Green Deal and fostering a greener, more prosperous future for all.
Source: Glass for Europe with additional information added by GlassBalkan
