Organized by the RAL Gütegemeinschaft Kunststoff-Fensterprofilsysteme e.V. (GKFP), this interactive event series continues to foster dialogue and innovation within the sector. This year’s forum brought together leading experts to explore the multifaceted aspects of PVC windows’ environmental impact and their potential for a more sustainable future.

The two-hour event featured five compelling presentations, each offering a unique perspective on the subject. Bernhard Elias, Quality Assurance Officer at GKFP, opened the forum by highlighting five key pillars of PVC window sustainability: the VinylPlus® product label, resource conservation through efficient manufacturing, RAL quality assurance standards, eco-design principles in development, and a commitment to the circular economy.

Frank Lange, Managing Director of the Verband Fenster + Fassade (VFF), provided crucial context by outlining the VFF’s sustainability guidelines. His presentation focused on current legal requirements, relevant sustainability criteria, and existing building certification systems and recognized certificates within Germany.

Following an introductory video showcasing the success of the Rewindo recycling program, Moritz Underberg, Sustainability Manager at Salamander Industrie-Produkte GmbH, delved into the practical applications of recycled PVC. He highlighted Rewindo’s impressive achievements, including the recycling of 136,000 tons of PVC post-consumer and post-industrial recyclables, resulting in a CO2 reduction of 232,000 tons. Underberg also discussed the city of Düsseldorf’s “Climate-friendly living and working” funding program and Salamander’s own sustainability strategy.

Stephan Schmidt, Managing Director of the Fachverband Schloss- und Beschlagindustrie (FVS), offered a legal perspective, focusing on the implications of the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) and its recent revision. He emphasized the increased importance of sustainability within the CPR, citing the numerous mentions of “sustainable” (64 times) and “environment” (90 times) in the revised text. Schmidt concluded by advocating for the integration of environmental aspects into existing RAL quality marks.

Finally, Jakub Mües from EPEA GmbH presented a consulting perspective, highlighting the significant environmental footprint of the construction industry. He emphasized the interconnectedness of regulatory frameworks such as the EU Buildings Directive (EPBD), Ecodesign Regulation (ESPR), and CPR, along with financial incentives like the EU Taxonomy, in driving circular economy practices. Mües also discussed the increasing importance of building certifications (DGNB, LEEDS, BREEAM, QNG) and the feasibility of certifying windows containing recycled PVC with low levels of lead compounds. He stressed the need for transparent product declarations, such as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and building resource passports.

The TechnologieForumZukunft provided valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to enhance the sustainability of PVC windows. The presentations demonstrated a strong commitment across the industry to incorporate environmental considerations into every stage of the product lifecycle, from manufacturing and recycling to certification and regulatory compliance. The event clearly signaled a shift towards a more sustainable future for the building materials sector.

Source:gkfp.de with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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John Fredericks, a prominent supplier of PVCu windows, doors, conservatories, and aluminum bi-folds, has announced the continuation of its partnership with Secured by Design, emphasizing a commitment to security standards. The Yorkshire-based window manufacturer, in operation since 1970, has a rich history of innovation and customer loyalty. Recognized as SME of the Year at the Business for Calderdale Awards, John Fredericks boasts a workforce of 170 and serves over 220 installers across the UK. The renewal of their membership with Secured by Design underscores their dedication to producing high-quality, police-preferred products. Mark Dicconson, Managing Director of John Fredericks, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing relationship, highlighting the compliance of their Ultimate Collection branded products with Secured by Design standards.

Source: GlassBalkan

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