REHAU more sustainable than ever

 Tuesday, August 16, 2022

With sustainability growing in prominence among consumers, REHAU is investing in technology to show fabricators, installers and consumers the material history of their windows.

Shifts towards eco-friendly practices have been demonstrated in recent surveys, including a recent NatWest and IHS Markit poll where 63% of homeowners stated they were planning to make green home improvements in the next decade. With this in mind, REHAU has launched its new Window.ID digital identification tag for its windows, doors and accessories. Russell Hand, Head of Technical and Product Management at REHAU Windows, is heading the technology’s launch, which will allow the entire windows supply chain to retrieve information about the window including its constituent parts and recyclability.

“The pandemic has supercharged attitudes to sustainability in all areas of modern life, of which the home is a key part,” Russell explains. “Householders increasingly want to know how eco-friendly their property is, and windows, as an inextricable and prominent aspect of most structures, are a key part of this.

“It is with this need for these green priorities in mind that we have launched the Window.ID solution, which through use of an RFID tag fitted to the window will assist the traceability of polymer and other components used in our frames. This creates greater transparency of information for the fabricator and installer, which can then be passed onto eco-conscious homeowners.”

The sustainability of polymer continues as a talking point for the windows industry, with constant innovation and investment in initiatives including REHAU’s Runcorn-based PVCR recycling facility further enhancing the recyclability of frames using the material. With PVC windows now enjoying an average lifespan of over 30 years and more energy-efficient than wood and aluminium due to their thermoplastic nature, the material is growing in prominence as an eco-friendly option.

“Crucially, alongside returning polymer to the recycling loop in the future, Window.ID will also be able to show consumers compatible window components and accessories. Consequently, installers and fabricators can better present homeowners with upselling opportunities, while minimising time-consuming inspection or measurement appointments for replacement work due to the easily available data it offers.”

Tags: eco-friendly, Recycle, Russell Hand, sustainable, windows, wood, wood and panel, woodworking and manufacturing, woodworking industry