The new Low-Carbon Stratobel range delivers exceptionally low Global Warming Potential (GWP) values measured on a cradle-to-gate basis (A1–A3) in accordance with EN 15804+A2:2019. Low-Carbon Stratobel 33.1 achieves a GWP of just 9.1 kg CO₂ equivalent per square metre, while Low-Carbon Stratobel 44.2 records 12.9 kg CO₂ equivalent per square metre. These figures are verified through AGC’s third-party certified Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Generator, providing independently validated environmental data for project teams.

Beyond reducing embodied carbon, the products also demonstrate a high level of material circularity. Both Low-Carbon Stratobel 33.1 and 44.2 contain 62% recycled content, calculated according to ISO 14021 and the Glass for Europe methodology. The recycled content combines recycled glass within the substrate and recycled material incorporated into Eastman’s Saflex LiteCarbon Clear PVB interlayer, creating one of the most circular laminated glass solutions currently available for the construction sector.

AGC has also made lower-carbon PVB the standard specification across the entire Low-Carbon Stratobel Clearlite range. Available in all clear glass and PVB thickness combinations, the solution eliminates the need for customers to request a special sustainable option, allowing architects, façade consultants, glass processors and installers to specify lower-carbon laminated glass without additional lead times or design changes.

To support sustainable building projects, AGC provides complete environmental transparency through project-specific EPDs generated via its verified EPD Generator. Consolidated data covering Global Warming Potential and recycled content is also available on invoices or through comprehensive reports upon request.

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Unlike conventional CCF systems, which require substantial cavity depth, the Slimline version is almost half as deep and approaches the thickness of a single-skin façade. This reduction directly translates into increased net internal area (NIA), allowing developers to maximize usable floor space without compromising façade performance, an increasingly critical factor in high-value commercial real estate.

At the core of the system is a high-performance coated outer pane that reduces solar heat gain and improves daylight control. This coating also minimizes reliance on internal shading devices during working hours, contributing to better occupant comfort and energy efficiency. Complementing this is a newly engineered slimline venetian blind system with an integrated motor, measuring just 25mm in depth compared to traditional systems ranging between 60mm and 80mm. The blinds are available in multiple finishes to suit design intent.

The system also prioritizes sustainability. By integrating low-carbon glass and aluminium, and reducing overall material usage, the Slimline CCF achieves an embodied carbon profile comparable to a standard single-skin façade, while still delivering advanced environmental performance.

According to Jalal Fitoury, CEO for Europe at Permasteelisa Group, the technology addresses a growing industry demand for façades that balance transparency, energy performance, and carbon reduction without sacrificing usable building space. The system is already being introduced to architects and developers for upcoming commercial projects across Europe.

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At the recent Energy Conference, held at the Zlatibor Resort Hotel, a significant stride was made in this regard with the unveiling of an innovative online carbon footprint calculator specifically designed for artists and craftsmen working with glass.This digital tool represents a pivotal moment for the glass creative community. It provides a much-needed resource for artists, craftsmen, and creative entrepreneurs to accurately measure the environmental impact of their creations. By enabling users to calculate the carbon footprint associated with various handmade glass works, the calculator empowers them to make more informed decisions throughout their creative process. Beyond simple measurement, the tool also facilitates the optimization of both costs and the implementation of circular practices within glassmaking.

The development of this groundbreaking calculator is the result of the international project “Glassmaking Tradition Meets Innovation,” generously supported by the European Union. This project is deeply rooted in the rich heritage of glassmaking, seeking to revitalize these time-honored techniques through digital innovation. By connecting traditional knowledge and practices with modern creative processes and advancements, the project aims to forge new models for preserving this valuable cultural legacy while simultaneously embracing sustainable methodologies.

The “Glassmaking Tradition Meets Innovation” project is a collaborative effort, spearheaded by a dedicated consortium of partners: FREN – Creative Economy Lab, Center Rog Creative Hub from Ljubljana, the Institute for Creative Entrepreneurship and Innovation – IKPI, and Museum Sydøstdanmark. This diverse group of organizations brings together expertise in creative economy, innovative hubs, entrepreneurial development, and museum preservation, ensuring a comprehensive and impactful approach to the project’s goals.

The introduction of this carbon footprint calculator is more than just a technical advancement; it is a call to action for the glass creative community. It offers the tools to not only assess their environmental impact but also to actively work towards reducing it. By embracing this technology, glass artists can continue to create breathtaking works of art that not only captivate the eye but also align with the imperative of environmental stewardship. This tool marks a significant step towards a future where artistic innovation and ecological consciousness are seamlessly integrated, allowing glass to truly “breathe with nature.”

Source: IKPI with additional information added by Glass Balkan

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The bridge, dubbed “Glass Bridge: The Penn Monument for Hope,” was built by University of Pennsylvania professor of architecture Masoud Akbarzadeh and research assistant Boyu Xiao of the Weitzman School of Design, along with collaborators including Yao Lu of Jefferson University. It resides at the Corning Museum of Glass.

The bridge comprises interlocking hollow glass units without traditional reinforcements, such as steel.

“All these pieces alone, hollow glass units, might seem quite brittle—and they are,” says Akbarzadeh. “But depending on how you design to put these glass units together, they start relying on each other, and the units’ assembly establishes a path for the load to be transferred efficiently. Thus, the bridge gains strength as a whole.”

The project began in 2017 with the conceptualization and design of the bridge. Akbarzadeh says the original concept centered around using thin sheets of glass to build a “super-efficient structure.” The engineering drew on techniques that date back to the Mesopotamian age, around 4000 BCE, particularly funicular design, which harnesses compression to achieve stability and strength.

Akbarzadeh and his team designed the bridge to “channel forces along ideal compression paths.” According to a Penn release, “Every glass unit, joint and angle was optimized so that the bridge’s arch would carry the load primarily through compression rather than bending forces—a method as ancient as the Sumerian U arches, now realized through cutting-edge computation and fabrication technologies.”

Lu says that one of the earliest hurdles was solving the problem of joining the glass modules without inducing stress points that lead to fractures. Male and female key joints were initially considered, but the shapes were difficult to construct out of glass. The team eventually used structural double-sided tape. To ensure a proper balance of flexibility and rigidity, polyvinyl butyral (PVB) was selected.

“But with these connectors, every cut, every angle, every dimension had to be accurate within 0.1 millimeters,” says Akbarzadeh. “When you’re dealing with 124 separate glass units, even the tiniest misalignment can multiply across the entire span. If we didn’t maintain that level of precision, the whole structure could have collapsed under its own weight.”

The bridge’s construction occurred onsite at Corning over a period of three weeks in November 2024.

Glasbau Pritz constructed the bridge’s hollow glass units. Theile Glass provided glass milling and lamination services. Saint-Gobain manufactured the low-carbon glass. The glass laminates were made using Kuraray’s Trosifol Extra Stiff Pro, and the structural connection component featured thick SentryGlas.

Source: Glass Bridge with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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The company is excited to announce a new partnership with Eastman, aimed at integrating the innovative Saflex LiteCarbon Clear interlayer into its Low-Carbon Stratobel laminated safety glass. This collaboration not only highlights the increasing demand for low-carbon products but also reinforces the commitment of both companies to reduce their carbon footprints and support sustainability objectives across various industries.

A Step Further in Sustainability

The integration of Eastman’s Saflex LiteCarbon Clear interlayer into AGC’s Low-Carbon Stratobel Glass marks a pivotal advancement in the quest to minimize the embodied carbon of laminated glass products. This new combined solution provides window manufacturers with a high-performance, sustainable option that does not compromise on quality or safety. With exceptional transparency and compliance with stringent safety standards, the product is well-suited for a variety of applications, including residential windows.

Low-Carbon Stratobel Glass: A Reduced Global Warming Potential

One of the standout features of the Saflex LiteCarbon Clear interlayer is its impressive environmental credentials. At just 0.76 mm thick, this PVB interlayer boasts a reduced Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 2.4 kilograms CO2 equivalent per square meter. This innovative product aligns seamlessly with AGC’s Low-Carbon Glass, which has a GWP of 5.5 kg CO2 equivalent per square meter for 4 millimeter float glass. The synergy between these components not only enhances the sustainability of laminated glass solutions but also offers a robust alternative for manufacturers looking to lessen their environmental impact.

Meeting Industry Demands

As the construction industry increasingly prioritizes carbon emissions reduction, this initiative comes at a crucial time. AGC Glass Europe and Eastman are providing glazing manufacturers with a timely and effective solution that addresses the urgent need to mitigate climate change while upholding high standards of performance and safety. The collaboration serves as a beacon of hope for those in the industry seeking to innovate responsibly and sustainably.

In conclusion, the partnership between AGC Glass Europe and Eastman is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving forward sustainable practices within the glass manufacturing sector. By integrating the Saflex LiteCarbon Clear interlayer with the Low-Carbon Stratobel laminated safety glass, both companies are setting a new benchmark for environmental responsibility, paving the way for a more sustainable future in construction and manufacturing. As we continue to face the challenges posed by climate change, initiatives like this remind us that progress is possible when innovation meets commitment.

Source: AGC Glass Europe  with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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The first of these trials took place at Pilkington UK Limited’s Greengate facility in St. Helens, England, marking a collaborative effort between the industry and the United Kingdom’s Department for Energy Security.

The project is part of a comprehensive initiative to evaluate the potential of biofuels in reducing carbon emissions from industrial glass and ceramics production. It comprises a total of five trials designed to identify suitable biofuels for furnaces that vary in design and scale. This approach not only highlights the ever-growing need for sustainable alternatives to conventional energy sources but also exemplifies a commitment to innovation in a traditionally resource-intensive sector.

The first trial, conducted at the facility’s combustion test bed in March, yielded promising insights into the combustion properties of biofuel oils among various alternatives. According to Glass Futures officials, these findings have laid the groundwork for subsequent tests on commercial glass furnaces and ceramics kilns, increasing confidence in the feasibility of adopting biofuels at an industrial scale.

Caio Mendonça, research and development senior decarbonization technologist at Pilkington UK, expressed optimism regarding the trials. “This groundbreaking trial is an exciting step towards net zero and highlights our dedication to sustainable innovation within the glass industry,” Mendonça stated. “By testing biofuels at an industrial scale, we are pushing the boundaries of what is possible and demonstrating the power of cleaner, low-carbon alternatives to natural gas.”

The traditional reliance on natural gas in glass furnaces and ceramics kilns poses significant challenges as the industry strives to lower its carbon footprint. As advancements in technology continue to emerge, it becomes increasingly vital for manufacturers to explore viable, low-carbon alternatives to natural gas. The Glass Futures trial aims to provide a pathway for integrating such solutions, ensuring a greener future for the industry.

As these trials progress, the insights gained will not only enhance the understanding of biofuels but also contribute significantly to the overarching goal of achieving net-zero emissions in the glass industry. The pursuit of sustainable practices in industrial processes is crucial not only for meeting regulatory requirements but also for fostering a more sustainable economic landscape.

The collaboration between Glass Futures and Pilkington UK, backed by government support, underscores the importance of partnership in driving innovation and developing practical solutions for the industry’s environmental challenges. As the results from these trials unfold, they may serve as a model for other sectors looking to transition towards more sustainable practices, reinforcing the vital role that biofuels can play in the future of industrial manufacturing.

In conclusion, the pioneering biofuels trials at Pilkington UK signify a promising shift towards a more sustainable glass industry. By focusing on alternative energy sources, the sector is taking important steps not only to reduce emissions but also to pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

Source:Glass Futures with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Source:Guardian Glass Europe with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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This segment specifically targets the role of glass in fostering more sustainable building practices, reflecting the industry’s commitment to environmentally responsible solutions. The discussions featured insights from prominent experts, who shared strategic approaches that not only enhance the ecological footprint of glass production and usage but also address the latest trends influencing the sector. By examining these critical themes, the conference played a pivotal role in highlighting how the glass industry can innovate and adapt to meet the growing demand for sustainable architecture and design.

Glass and sustainability in buildings

1. Klaus Muehlhans, A+W Software – “Sustainable growth by optimized production organization”
2. Michael J. Emonds, Chemetall – “Sustainable products in float glass (with special focus on ECHA microplastics guideline – Annex XV)”
3. Romaric Massard, eLstar Dynamics – “Dynamic Glass–What is needed?”
4. Stephen Selkowitz, Berkeley Lab – “Façade futures: Unplanned obsolescence and the looming threat posed by the facade to future building performance”
5. Steve Whettingsteel, Krysteline Technologies – “Developing a more sustainable glass recycling system”
6. Elvira Reino, SATINAL – “STRATO: structural and carbon-free interlayers shake up the safety-glass industry”
7. Graeme DeBrincat and Florence Wu, Arup – “The holistic approach to the recovery of glazing materials”
8. Hugues Lefevre, AGC Glass Europe – “How a holistic approach enables the production of Low-Carbon float glass, with an embodied C02 footprint reduced by 40%?”
9. Jeroen ter Schiphorst, ClearVue Technologies – presenting “High-transparency clear window-integrated PV and agrivoltaics”
10. Matyas Gutai, Water-filled Glass – “Water-filled glass (WFG) as a Heat Displacement System for saving energy in buildings”
11. Daniel Mann, TNO – “SunSmart–Thermochromic Smart Window for Optimized Solar Heat Management: From Lab to Pilot-Scale Production and Test Buildings”
12. Elke van Nieuwenhuijzen, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences – “In situ detection of product age and argon concentration as measure of the re-use potential of insulation glass in buildings”
13. Enrico Cutri, Dow Building Science and Philippe Willareth, Dr. Lüchinger+Meyer Bauingenieure AG – “Silicones – an important enabler of sustainable design”
14. Eoin Casserly, VOLUTA – “The Performance of Glass as Cladding Material in Long-Span Biome Structures”

Industry trends

1. Iva Ganev, Glass for Europe – “New carbon pricing system and new carbon border tax at EU level: what impacts for the glass and glazing sector”
2. Bertrand Cazes, Glass for Europe and Urmilla Jokhu Sowell, National Glass Association (NGA) – “Flat glass recycling in Europe and the US: state of play and challenges for enhanced circularity”

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Saint-Gobain India, a leader in the construction materials industry, is proud to announce the launch of its groundbreaking low carbon glass production (1). This innovative glass is set to address the pressing need for sustainable building materials in the Indian Construction Industry, marking a significant step towards reducing carbon footprints.

Advancing Environmental Responsibility

Saint-Gobain’s new glass product is expected to achieve a remarkable 40% reduction in carbon footprint compared to existing offerings from Saint-Gobain Glass India. This exceptional achievement is made possible through the incorporation of two-thirds recycled content as raw materials, coupled with the utilization of natural gas and renewable energy sources for electricity. The production parameters will be meticulously recorded to obtain a verified Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), set to be published later this year, further validating the substantial carbon footprint reduction. This accomplishment is the culmination of extensive research and development efforts, the excellence of our industrial teams, and our unwavering commitment to achieving the Group’s ambitious Net Zero by 2050 vision.

Preserving Performance, Elevating Sustainability

Despite its low carbon attributes, this revolutionary glass maintains the same high standards of technical, quality, and aesthetic performance as traditional glass. It will soon be integrated into Saint-Gobain Glass India’s energy-efficient glass portfolio, providing an environmentally responsible substrate option. By incorporating this low carbon glass into building designs, the embodied carbon reduction in structures can be significantly enhanced, complementing their operational energy efficiency.

Confronting the Decarbonization Challenge

The building industry is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for nearly 40% of the total. As highlighted in a joint study conducted by Arup and Saint-Gobain Glass in 2022 on facades (2), it is essential to address both operational and embodied carbon in order to achieve substantial decarbonization. Saint-Gobain Glass’s advanced Magnetron coating technology already delivers substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions related to artificial cooling and lighting during the operational phase of buildings.

A Sustainable Future for India’s Construction Industry

Mr. A R Unnikrishnan, Managing Director of Saint-Gobain India – Glass Business, emphasized the significance of this production launch on “World Environment Day,” stating, “This launch signifies Saint-Gobain’s committed effort to contribute sustainably to the Indian Construction Industry. As India moves towards its Net Zero commitment by 2070, future building materials must prioritize low carbon solutions. This innovative glass product will accelerate our shared vision of light and sustainable construction, aligning with our purpose of Making the World a Better Home. By decarbonizing the built environment with sustainable products and reducing embodied carbon footprints, we are taking significant steps towards achieving our Net Zero goal by 2050.”

(1) GWP indicator calculated from cradle to grave (A1 to C4 stages) and to be communicated in the verified EPD under development for publication later this year.

(2) Refer to the study “Carbon footprint of façades: significance of glass” conducted by Arup in partnership with Saint-Gobain Glass in 2022.

Source: Saint-Gobain Glass with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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