Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority for Australians, with a 2020 survey revealing that 90% of Australian consumers prefer sustainable products. While there are numerous ways to minimise daily waste, can consumers make a significant impact on waste reduction on a larger scale?
Every product undergoes a transformation from raw materials to a finished good ready for sale. For instance, sand is turned into glass, bauxite into aluminium, and raw earth into tiles. Tiles, crafted from various inorganic raw earth materials, are free from toxins and are among the most plentiful resources available. At the end of their lifecycle, they offer diverse reuse possibilities.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that during the 2018-19 financial year, the construction sector spent $2 billion on waste management, accounting for 12.7 million tonnes of construction waste.
In the ceramics industry, innovative technologies have been introduced to minimise wastewater and material usage, reduce energy consumption, and ensure tiles are free from harmful chemicals. Ceramic tile production involves significant water usage for mixing, lubrication, and cooling. To address this, some manufacturers have developed water reticulation plants that capture and purify wastewater for reuse. Additionally, a portion of the energy used in manufacturing is generated on-site, and low-consumption LED lighting is utilised throughout facilities.
Factories recycle all ceramic waste back into the manufacturing process, ensuring each tile contains recycled material. These tiles are made from inorganic materials, contain zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and are fully recyclable at the end of their life.
Partnerships have been formed to create Product Stewardship Processes, aiding Australians in recycling tile waste. Recycled tiles can be crushed into aggregate and transformed into products like landscaping aggregate, road base, and bedding sand.
In recent years, Australians who have chosen green certified tiles have contributed to significant water savings. Compared to conventional tiles, green certified wall tiles use significantly less raw material, water, and energy, while floor tiles also demonstrate reduced resource consumption.
As pioneers in supplying green certified tiles, some companies have achieved prestigious certifications, ensuring their products meet high environmental standards.
By collaborating, homeowners, builders, architects, designers, and suppliers can enhance the natural environment and pave the way for a sustainable future. It all begins with the choice to source sustainably. Opting for green certified products ensures you are making the most eco-friendly decision.
Tags: #GreenBuilding, #RecyclableMaterials, #SustainableLiving, #SustainableTiles