Sustainability in construction: Soprema’s future thinking

At Soprema, we are dedicated to continuously pursue technological advancements and create innovative, sustainable, future-proof and forward-thinking systems and solutions. We fully believe in the “building for the future” motto and we encourage sustainability in construction by:

  • Enabling circular construction by manufacturing recycled and recyclable products
  • Developing high-quality, long-lasting materials, which promote sustainability
  • Facilitating optimal space management and promoting biodiversity through roof gardens and green façades solutions

Finally, we have extensive expertise in specifying for, and contributing to, NZEB and LEED certified buildings and projects all over Ireland, including IPC House, 1 Molesworth Street, 40 Molesworth Street, DAA Head Office and TCD Business School.

Enabling circular construction

As a global manufacturer with over 100 production sites worldwide, at Soprema, we fully understand the important role we play in enabling circular construction and the circular economy. As part of our CSR strategy, we are committed to finding innovative ways to produce more sustainable materials and increase the sustainability of our production processes. Currently, we are measuring the waste generated on our various sites and have taken concrete steps in the shape of innovations including Sopraloop® (an innovative PET recycling line in Strasbourg), and X Loop and X Crusher (for recycling waste from bituminous membranes).

Additionally, both our sustainable XPS and wood fibre insulation ranges are manufactured in an environmentally conscious way. In our XPS production plant in Belgium, SOPRA XPS insulation boards are produced using climate-friendly CO2 technology: we refrain from using chemicals and use CO2 as a blowing agent instead. Moreover, we use the cutting waste of other XPS boards for raw materials, as well as recycled styrofoam packaging materials and other end-of-life EPS. SOPRA XPS is approved by the Green Guide to Specification and has independent BREEAM A-certification.

PAVATEX natural wood fibre insulation, too, is a great match for circular building projects. All PAVATEX products are made from wood chips and have an EPD or Environmental Product Declaration. This recycled thermal insulation is made entirely made from residual material from sawmills and can be recycled at the end of its life. Moreover, any left-over waste from PAVATEX production is processed and reused as a renewable energy source.

Developing high-quality, long-lasting, sustainable materials

For over 100 years, Soprema has been known for its relentless pursuit of technological advancement, sustainability, high-quality systems, bespoke solutions perfect for even the most challenging designs, and exceptional technical service and expertise. Today, Soprema continues to operate with core values of integrity, respect, commitment to excellence, and a focus on sustainable development to minimise our impact on the environment. We will continue to strive towards a range of products and services fully in line with society’s expectations, and towards 100% low-carbon solutions.

Sustainable construction starts with sustainable materials, which enable circular construction, such as XPS, PAVATEX and our synthetic roofing systems (featuring both TPO and PVC membranes), which have a 30+ years lifespan and can be fully recycled. After all, sustainability in construction is not only about reusing building materials; it’s also about ensuring a long service life and avoiding short-term replacement. That is why plastics in construction can indeed be sustainable. Non-plastic alternatives that need regular replacement generate waste in a way that durable plastic materials, such as XPS insulation, do not. Provided installation and maintenance instructions are followed, XPS boards have a very long lifespan and retain their lambda values year after year.

Making our cities green

The importance of roof gardens, green façades and green areas cannot be overestimated as part of sustainable construction. These oases can help curb the decline of pollinators and urban wildlife, enhancing biodiversity, while also reducing the amount of heat gain in the building fabric, absorbing excess water, and giving residents the chance to reconnect to nature. Our technical department contributes to finding the best solutions in terms of green roofing design and specifications, helping you to make the most of your project.

Partnerships for sustainable construction

Soprema is a member of the Irish Green Building Council. As an IGBC Silver member, we support the transformation of the Irish construction industry, are committed to building green, and we contribute to the development of sustainable buildings through sustainable products, systems, and solutions.

Building for the future with Soprema

Soprema is dedicated to developing innovative and sustainable solutions, including high-performance and long-lasting waterproofing solutions, recycled and recyclable insulation, and sustainable roof garden solutions. Reach out to our technical experts to find out how our solutions can be incorporated in your project.