Sustainable news from our colleagues in Paris: low-carbon concrete blocks made by Materrup are now being used on the Triangle project, a model of environmental excellence. Supported by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, this 180-metre-high, 91,000 m² tower, designed by the renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, is aiming for HQE 'Exceptional' and BREEAM 'Excellent' certification.
To achieve this, the project must meet exemplary energy consumption and carbon emission standards aligned with the Paris climate plan. Solutions implemented include geothermal systems, a district heating network, energy and heat recovery systems, a bioclimatic façade, and 1,000 m² of photovoltaic panels. The building's carbon footprint will also be managed through the use of low-carbon materials, including a minimum of 50% concrete with reduced CO2 emissions and recycled materials, particularly for the aluminium facades.
By replacing conventional concrete blocks with Materrup blocks from the 1st floor upwards, we immediately save 44% of CO2, or almost 37 tonnes of CO2 equivalent! This innovative, high-performance, geosourced, and local material is made from non-calcined clay cement, which gives it excellent mechanical and environmental properties.
The manufacturing process for these blocks also offers significant additional savings:
- Energy savings: over 145,000 MJ thanks to energy-efficient processes
- Reduction in fossil fuels: over 4,000 litres saved
- Preservation of resources: over 50 tonnes of limestone not extracted
Using Materrup's low-carbon blocks is therefore a key part of the project's decarbonisation objectives.
For the contractor, nothing changes: the performance, tools, installation methods, and teams remain the same. The use of Materrup blocks integrates seamlessly into the existing construction process, ensuring a smooth and uncomplicated transition.
Koen De Rooy, BESIX Project Director, states: "The choice to use Materrup blocks reflects our desire to be a driving force in the transition towards a more environmentally-friendly construction sector. From design to execution, we support our customers to help them achieve their sustainability objectives and decarbonise their projects. The use of Materrup's low-carbon concrete blocks on Triangle is precisely in line with this approach."