Glass Futures has reached a historic milestone in sustainable glassmaking. Earlier this week, the team successfully rolled the first glass from its world-first pilot furnace in St Helens, proving the facility is fully operational after months of testing and commissioning.
The 30-tonne-per-day oxy-fired furnace is at the heart of this new research and development centre. It allows experts to explore alternative fuels, advanced melting techniques, and smarter production processes that could reshape the future of glass manufacturing. From waste-derived biofuels to hydrogen and electric boosting, the facility will trial new approaches aimed at cutting carbon emissions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
This is a huge step forward, The furnace is now ready for global collaboration and innovation.
said Justin Kelly, CEO of Glass Futures. 
For the team, the first piece of glass was a powerful moment. “It’s the result of years of vision, planning, and hard work,” added General Manager Aston Fuller. “This proves what’s possible when people come together with a shared purpose.”
Supported by members, partners, and UK funders, Glass Futures is now preparing for its formal trial programmes, ushering in a new era of sustainable glass production.
Source: Glass Futures with additional information added by Glass Balkan
