Tomorrow’s shipbuilding
With the target of reducing carbon intensity by 40% by 2030 and 50% by 2050, the IMO has not only recognised the importance of reducing our impact on the planet but is also ready to act. New standards and regulations are being introduced to take the industry in the right direction, whether in terms of energy-efficiency or cleaner fuels. At Saint-Gobain Marine, we want to be part of this transition by following existing legislation, shaping tomorrow’s and always striving to go one step further.
Many brands, one objective
Although our brands specialise in different applications and solutions, they all share the same ambition to embrace a more sustainable kind of shipbuilding. This commitment reveals itself through an array of complementary initiatives and approaches including:
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Developing lighter solutions that reduce the weight of your vessel and therefore its energy and fuel consumption such as ULTIMATE insulation that is 45% lighter than traditional stone wool and Weber Fireshield Marine flooring that reduces the weight by about 30% compared to standard birch plywood
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Optimising temperature control to make vessels more energy efficient, including customised glare control with light-sensitive glazing solutions like SageGlass Harmony™
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Using more sustainable, recycled and recyclable materials to give products a second life and contribute to a circular economy – for example, Gyproc uses almost exclusively gypsum in its plasterboards that can be infinitely recycled
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Monitoring and reducing waste, water usage and energy consumption at every step of production with innovative water microfiltration technology from Saint-Gobain Performance Ceramics and Refractories
Moving forwards, together, we can find, develop and innovate new solutions and materials with a lower impact for lighter, more energy-efficient vessels that respect current and future legislation, and prioritise our planet.
Light for lower impact
Lighter vessels are more energy and fuel efficient. HVAC systems can be smaller. Less emissions are produced. Reducing the weight of materials – such as insulation, glazing and partitions – can therefore have an extremely positive impact on the environment. Light, compressible products also simplify logistics and reduce transport emissions, without compromising on quality or performance.
Energy efficient to reduce waste and costs
Energy-efficiency is essential to develop a more sustainable form of shipbuilding and shipping. Using less energy and fuel means less pollution and lower running costs. High-performance insulation can significantly reduce heat loss, heated flooring helps maintain a constant temperature and chromatic glass prevents the sun from entering to minimise heat and glare.
Durable for a longer lifespan
Choosing robust materials that last longer in extreme conditions will increase the lifespan of your vessel, thus limiting maintenance and optimising performance. High performance means greater efficiency and less repairs and replacement parts, which in turn reduces your operating costs and environmental impact. Efficient marine coatings reduce the risk of corrosion, while adapted insulation for cold water pipes prevents condensation.
Sustainability is at the heart of Saint-Gobain's journey
All Saint-Gobain Marine brands play an integral role within the Saint-Gobain Group. Corporate Social Responsibility sustainability are at the heart of the Group’s strategy as part of a continuous improvement process.
As well as being a member of the United Nation’s Global Compact since 2003, Saint-Gobain also encourages partners and suppliers to commit to the Global Compact’s ten principles. The Group also pays particular attention to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These commitments enable Saint-Gobain to better evaluate its impact and work towards a fairer, more sustainable world.
Since 2019, Saint-Gobain has supported the UN’s Global Compact’s Business Ambition for 1.5°C. The Group has committed itself to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 in line with the goal of limiting the rise of global temperatures to 1.5°C. This ambition is part of the Group’s strategy the Groupthat has been deploying for several years to limit its environmental impact and contribute to decarbonising its markets including Marine and Offshore.