Saint-Gobain partners with Legno Legno for the Sustainable Window+ Project
Saint-Gobain has joined forces with Legno Legno – Consorzio Nazionale Serramentisti for the Sustainable Window+ project. This collaboration aims to support window manufacturers in their environmental labeling journey and raise awareness about sustainability in the glass industry.
Driving Sustainability in the Glass Industry
Glass Futures, a disruptive research technology organization, secures £18 million funding from the UK government’s Department for Energy, Security, and Net Zero. This investment will enable Glass Futures and its members to lead the decarbonization efforts in energy-intensive industries.
Advancing Carbon Reduction Strategies
Glass Futures will embark on three groundbreaking projects to significantly reduce carbon emissions in the glass and ceramic sectors. These initiatives will explore 100% hydrogen, low-cost biofuels, and electrical boosting to facilitate a smooth transition away from fossil fuels.
Rapid and Dynamic Electric Boosting of Glass Furnaces (R&D-Electric)
By developing super boosted electric furnaces, Glass Futures aims to optimize electric melting processes and enhance the capabilities of conventional glass furnaces. This advancement paves the way for a seamless transition to super-boost hybrid furnaces by 2040, contributing to a more sustainable glass industry.
Demonstrating the Viability of Low-Cost Biofuels for Glass and Ceramics
Collaborating with leading glass manufacturers like O-I, Ardagh, Encirc, and Pilkington UK, Glass Futures will explore economically attractive biofuels for glass and ceramic furnace sites. This project aims to provide cost-effective and renewable alternatives to natural gas, promoting decarbonization in the industry.
Demonstrating Hydrogen in the Ceramics Sector
Working with the British Ceramics Consortium, Glass Futures will showcase 100% hydrogen-firing technologies across various ceramics manufacturing sites. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, hydrogen has the potential to significantly decrease CO2 emissions and drive sustainability in the ceramics industry.
The Future of Sustainable Glass Production
Richard Katz, CEO of Glass Futures, expressed excitement about the progress made and the opening of the Global Centre of Excellence. The funding from the UK government will enable the organization to accelerate groundbreaking research and test innovative technologies at an industrial scale. These advancements align with Glass Futures’ mission to bring together industry leaders, academia, and foundations to drive decarbonization efforts and shape a sustainable future for the glass industry.
Source: Glass Futures with additional information added by GlassBalkan
