Duravit builds the world's first climate-neutral ceramic plant in Canada
Duravit announced a revolutionary step for the global bathroom brand with the development of the world’s first climate-neutral ceramic production facility in Matane, Québec. Through its exclusive use of renewable energies in the ceramic manufacturing process, Duravit’s facility will utilize the world’s first electric roller kiln, powered by electricity generated by hydropower. Pioneering this leap towards a sustainable future, Duravit’s use of this innovative and industry-leading technology will save around 11,000 tons of CO2 per year, compared to conventional ceramic manufacturing facilities, a huge leap for the brand’s carbon neutral goals for 2045.
Innovative response to climate change
The new Canadian manufacturing plant is scheduled to start production in early 2025, creating 240 new jobs.
Stephen Tahy, CEO of Duravit AG, emphasizes: “We are very proud to act as a pioneer in the design for a sustainable sanitary industry and provide answers to the challenges of climate change. In doing so, we are setting standards for innovative solutions in an industry characterized by high energy consumption. At the same time, the new plant is a milestone on our path to climate neutrality in 2045.”
In designing and preparing the new production site, Duravit worked closely with the Italian manufacturer of machinery and plants for ceramics SACMI as a strategic partner. Important substantial synergies have been achieved through the joint development work. “Previously, the technology of an electric kiln was unusable for the sanitary ceramics sector,” explains Thomas Stammel, COO of Duravit. “Thanks to close cooperation with our long-standing partner SACMI and our own research and development work, we have succeeded in developing a new type of kiln for these requirements.”
Project proves feasibility of CO2-neutral production
In addition to climate-neutral ceramic production, all raw materials used by the manufacturing plant will be sourced locally or from the US, reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainable supply chain practices. The ceramic ware produced from this facility will primarily supply the North American market and thus play a critical role in the company’s growth strategy for the region.
“This world-class facility sets a new global standard for sustainable manufacturing and underscores Duravit’s commitment to innovation at all scales,” says Bob Downie, President & CEO of Duravit USA. “Once operating, the new facility will have a significant impact on the North American Market supporting strategic sales and brand initiatives as well as optimizing distribution and service for customers across the US and Canada.”
Broad political support spurs implementation
Duravit has found the ideal partner for this revolutionary facility with its alliances in Canada. François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, recognizes the long-term strategic partnership across sustainable economics between Germany and Canada noting, “We are a grateful for the trust placed in Canada as a sustainable business location and very much look forward to establishing Duravit as an innovator and trendsetting employer in our country.”
The governmental organization Développement économique Canada pour les régions du Québec (DEC) is a key sponsor and supporter of this sustainable initiative. Minister Pascale St-Onge and Minister Pierre Fitzgibbon from the Province of Québec affirms:
"Our significant amount of the subsidy is representative for the enthusiasm to be able to promote and celebrate such a project in our own country: Duravit is doing important pioneering work here, and we all stand together for the values of sustainability, regionality and inventiveness. We hope that other companies will follow this pioneering example to Canada and Québec."
The decision to build the first CO2-neutral ceramic production facility in Canada is a significant investment for a sustainable future for the global brand and a vital step for climate neutrality by 2045.
