11/02/2009 

BASF Construction Chemicals (UK) has been awarded the title of Sustainability Champion 2008 by the British Precast Concrete Federation. For the first time the title of Sustainability Champion was awarded also to Associate Members of the Federation.

 

The award submission was made by BASF Construction Chemicals’ Admixtures division, highlighting its progress in the field of concrete, where it has developed concepts for greater sustainability in the production of precast concrete and manufactured concrete products, optimizing processes and use of energy. In the precast concrete sector, BASF’s proven Zero Energy System (ZES) concept has used technology to transform precast production into a much more sustainable process: Self compacting concrete does not need vibrating or heat treatment and thus saves energy as well as benefits the health of those working with it. For the manufactured concrete products (MCP) industry, the BASF FIT 4 VALUE concept supports the need for process optimization and the enhancement of product performance. Using the company’s RheoFIT admixtures, the FIT 4 VALUE concept optimizes the mix design, cycle time, appearance and durability of manufactured concrete products. 

 “After five years of running a successful and unique sustainability award scheme for our manufacturing members, this year we decided to extend the programme into our supply chains both upstream and downstream”, said Martin Clarke, Chief Executive of the British Precast Concrete Federation. “A new Sustainability Champion Award has therefore been launched for our Associate Members and I am delighted that BASF are among the first winners. Their approach to energy management is a real boost for the precast sector in improving our sustainability credentials, while at the same time improving the bottom line for members.”

Geoff Mackey, BASF Head of Sustainable Development (Europe North) said: "We are delighted to have this area of our work recognized in this way. Doing business sustainably for us means applying the principles of sustainability throughout our business. In BASF we also place this knowledge at the disposal of our customers so they can make use of the sustainability know-how of BASF experts in order to differentiate themselves from competitors. This way, sustainability contributes to the economic success of BASF and our customers.”

BASF’s products and solutions can save three times more greenhouse gas emissions than the entire amount caused by their production and disposal. To achieve this and other ambitious environmental targets, BASF continues to develop innovative technologies and materials for sustainable climate protection, spending a substantial share of its research and development budget in the areas of energy efficiency, climate protection, resource conservation and renewable raw materials. In areas such as construction, automobiles and industrial production, BASF products help its customers to save more than 250 million tonnes of CO2 worldwide.