Sustainability in Metal Construction
How environmentally friendly are aluminium, stainless steel & co.? Whether from the company’s point of view or from the point of view of customers – sustainability is an incredibly important topic today. We explain the current state of sustainability in metal construction.
Recycling: The Second Life Cycle of Metals
One of the biggest advantages of metals such as aluminium and stainless steel is their excellent recyclability. Both materials can be reused almost indefinitely without losing quality. Recycling aluminium saves up to 95 % of the energy required for primary production. Old aluminium parts can be melted down and used for new products – a closed cycle. Stainless steel also scores with a high recycled content. Worldwide, new stainless steel consists of around 60 % recycled material. This saves resources and reduces waste.
CO₂ Balance: Production Makes the Difference
The production of metals is often energy-intensive and associated with high CO₂ emissions. But there is progress. The production of primary aluminium, for example, is energy-intensive, but modern processes are increasingly relying on renewable energies such as hydropower to improve the CO₂ balance. In addition, the durability of stainless steel helps to reduce the ecological footprint when viewed over the entire service life.
Sustainable Coating Processes: Protection and Environmental Friendliness Combined
The surface treatment of metals is important not only for aesthetics, but also for protection against corrosion and wear. Innovative coating processes help to minimise the use of chemicals and reduce environmental impact. Our powder coating, for example, does not require solvents, which benefits the environment. Avoiding environmentally harmful heavy metals, as we do, is also increasingly becoming standard and makes metal construction more sustainable.
Of course, we also try to run our company as sustainably as possible. With our fully customisable products, we focus on reducing unnecessary waste. We also offer self-collection to avoid unnecessary delivery routes.
Like every company, we are also looking for ways to become even more sustainable. We are happy if you accompany us on this journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sustainability in Metal Construction
Why are metals such as aluminium and stainless steel sustainable?
One of the biggest advantages of metals such as aluminium and stainless steel is their excellent recyclability. Both materials can be reused almost indefinitely without losing quality.
How much energy does aluminium recycling save?
Recycling aluminium saves up to 95 % of the energy required for primary production.
How high is the recycled content in new stainless steel?
Worldwide, new stainless steel consists of around 60 % recycled material. This saves resources and reduces waste.
Why is metal production important for the CO₂ balance?
The production of metals is often energy-intensive and associated with high CO₂ emissions. Modern processes increasingly use renewable energies to improve the CO₂ balance.
Why is powder coating more sustainable?
Powder coating does not require solvents, which benefits the environment. Avoiding environmentally harmful heavy metals makes metal construction more sustainable.
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