Sustainability
Eco-Pioneers of the Ceramic Industry
Sustainability is woven into our Group’s DNA. Since its inception in the 1960s, Founder and Chairman Romano Minozzi coined the equation Economy=Ecology aiming to create an economy in service of human well-being while respecting the environment. This vision led us to embrace a greater humanistic approach—one that tailors our actions to enhance the human condition and create unique solutions customized to fulfill the needs of humankind. Our vision stands clear: reengineering ceramics into solutions that enhance the interaction between humans and the environment. Innovation and sustainability have always been the founding values inspiring the Group, expressed through the production of ceramic surfaces that not only stand out for their technology and appearance, but which also embody a profound value: to serve humans while fully respecting the environment.
Social Responsibility
Our social responsibility extends to education and training, empowering individuals with knowledge. We shoulder a commitment that goes beyond raising awareness; we are dedicated to enlightening our community on the critical global issues that affect us all. Our holistic approach—is designed to be both tangible and intellectual, fostering a profound connection that not only anticipates the future but actively shapes it – To build a better tomorrow: We envision the way, create forward-thinking solutions and shape the next generation.
Ethical Industrialism
In today’s ever-evolving landscape, the manufacturing sector stands at a pivotal juncture and is called to make a Darwinian leap forward. To evolve, embracing the concept of a circular economy is essential; it is the cornerstone that will improve and transform manufacturing processes. This shift requires us to reassess our methods, with a focus on recovering and, importantly, enhancing materials. Our goal is to ensure that every resource is utilized to its maximum potential, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient future. By embracing this approach, we transform limitations into opportunities, paving the way for a future where progress and sustainability are inextricably linked.
H2 Factory™®
2023 marked a significant milestone in the Group’s efforts to reach carbon neutrality when Iris Ceramica Group and Edison Next developed the first Green-Hydrogen powered ceramic slab factory, H2 Factory™®. This groundbreaking production plant marks the first project for the decarbonization of the ceramic industry and will significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions, saving around 900 tons of CO2 per year, and eventually achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. In July 2024, the world’s first 4D technical ceramic slab was produced using a mixture of green hydrogen and natural gas. The slab is called 4D Ceramics because of its fourth dimension related to sustainability. Edison Next will initiate activities to install the final system: an electrolysis plant capable of producing about 132 tons of green hydrogen per year, which will power the kiln with a mixture of green hydrogen up to 50% – A pioneering project that represents a fundamental step towards the decarbonization of the ceramic industry.
Green Certifications
– Cradle to Cradle Silver
– Declare
– EPD
– Green Guard
– ISO 9001
– ISO 14001
– ISO 14067
– ISO 45001
– ISO 50001
– LEED
– NSF