Sustainability

Environmental responsibility is a key priority at Hydro Building Systems.  Sustainability of buildings is a critical target for our business – through thermal performance, energy efficiency and climate protection.  This commitment to the environment applies to the complete lifecycle of our aluminium building products.

A Responsible Approach

As the world’s third largest integrated aluminium supplier, Hydro is a pioneer in renewable energy and in the development of energy efficient building solutions.

Wicona’s aluminum profiles are manufactured using environmentally responsible processes to minimise wastage of materials, and to be highly durable and recyclable.

Our components are engineered to maximise the use of natural light and ventilation, and their construction is designed for longevity but also to be easily dismantled at the end of the product’s life cycle.

The use of additives and composite materials are minimised to facilitate recycling.

An Industry Leader

Hydro is active at industry level, providing leadership and expertise as a catalyst for change in sustainable development.  Our involvement includes work with:

• The World Business Council for Sustainable Development – Energy Efficiency in Buildings Programme
• United Nations Energy Programme – Sustainable Building and Construction Initiative
• Hydro also contributed to the European Union’s Green Paper on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, which aims to save 20 per cent of energy consumption by 2020.

Building Visions

Hydro is committed to the responsible handling of raw materials and to minimising energy consumption, carbon emissions and waste.

We have developed a key performance indicator to compare ourselves against industry benchmarks and year-on-year achievements.  Our Building Visions initiative looks at how aluminium and glass façades can be more sustainable and which factors can further reduce energy consumption.

This programme is ongoing and aims to develop new concepts and economical solutions that will have a positive effect on the complete lifecycle of a building – from planning and construction through to the end of a building’s life.

Our customers benefit from technically advanced solutions and future-oriented product development, reaffirming our position as an international market leader in façade design.

Find out more about the Future of Façades