The property sector needs to go green fast in view of climate targets. It is something we have been hearing invariably in recent years. At the same time, we also know that our country is stuck with an outdated real estate heritage. Moreover, the construction sector is responsible for as much as 40 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions (such as CO2), 50 per cent of energy consumption and a third of water consumption (in our country). Figures that speak for themselves, but what are sustainable solutions that work today and tomorrow?
Temse-based innovative property player Cordeel Group is setting the tone, as evidenced by their sustainability report with the following common thread: “Focusing on innovation to create smart, energy-efficient and low-carbon solutions.”
In it, Cordeel Group explains how it launched a pilot project around a digital “materials passport”, an initiative they will apply to every one of their buildings with BIM from 2024 onwards. This passport is used to check in advance which materials and products will be used, how circular they are and their impact on the climate. The main objective of this exercise remains the same: to (re)use as many sustainable materials as possible. E.g. the development of a new concrete mix with less cement has already reduced CO2 emissions by +7% by 2022.
In recent years, there has been a strong focus on the R&D of technologies for sustainable energy management. Through subsidiary C-energy, Cordeel Group helps the building sector with “energy-as-a-service”; from energy monitoring, storage, optimisation and trading to complete Community Energy Systems. Patented energy hills are deployed as powerful hydro batteries that act as an energy source and ecological landmark. In addition, the selection of bio-based materials also helps Cordeel Group reduce the CO2 content of buildings. Think organic paints and coatings but equally 100% biodegradable fire extinguishers without PFAS and organic building materials derived from soils remediated by industrial hemp. The company is also committed to the electrification of construction sites, rolling stock and industrial processes.
Once the building is there, the health and safety of its users is also vital. Thus, in addition to monitoring and improving water and energy consumption, C-scan helps monitor the air quality in the building at all times.
Want to know more about their sustainability philosophy?
Read all about it here: https://reports.cordeel.eu/report/impact-report-2023/
Caption: Cordeel is building an energy hill on its site in Temse. It will buffer the abundant solar energy produced by the company so that it can be used when needed.
