KEYSTONE GROUP’S ‘FUTURE FIRST’ SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY BLAZES TRAIL TO NET ZERO

With the built environment and construction sectors accounting for around 38% of global carbon emissions, the journey to becoming a sustainable manufacturing business holds greater significance than ever before.  As one of the UK and Ireland’s largest manufacturers of construction products, the Keystone Group recognises that bold action is required to pave the way towards a more sustainable future.  It’s sustainability strategy, Future First, outlines how it is building decarbonisation into all business operations on its path to becoming one of the first UK manufacturers in the construction sector to achieve carbon net zero.   

Founded on the pillars of Our Planet, Our Products and Our People, Future First represents Keystone’s passion and commitment to driving sustainability in every aspect of its business to help create a better future for everyone. Under the Science Based Targets Initiative, a global organisation responsible for setting the world’s targets to ensure a more sustainable future, Keystone has embarked on a journey of monitoring and improving its carbon emissions and has committed to the ambitious target of becoming Net Zero by 2050.  

The group is on a downward trajectory to reduce carbon emissions across its manufacturing facilities with an action plan in place to reduce Scope 1 & 2 carbon emissions.  Key achievements to date include 100% of all energy consumed at UK production facilities currently being provided by renewable sources. Further efforts including upgrading the entire delivery fleet to Euro 6 engines and replacing forklifts across all our operations with electric models. 

A significant investment in PV panels at the Swadlincote and Overseal manufacturing facilities will boost sustainable energy production by providing 70% of energy requirements, saving 194 tonnes of carbon per year in phase 1 and an impressive 504 tonnes in phase 2. Additionally, Keystone has implemented comprehensive recycling strategies, resulting in 90% of all manufacturing waste being diverted from landfills and instead repurposed. 

Sustainable product innovation 

Each brand with the Keystone Group has set targets to reduce their operational impact as well as source responsible materials, whilst continuing to deliver  innovative solutions at minimal expense. These brands utilise recycled and recyclable materials where possible but also design products which are built for longevity and efficiency in application. They also provide transparent data in the form of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for all product ranges to demonstrate how their systems promote a circular economy and are responsible options for customers.  

Six brands have already achieved carbon neutral status and include the UK’s largest steel lintel manufacturer Keystone Lintels, Europe’s fastest growing roof window manufacturer Keylite and pioneering masonry support systems provider IG Masonry Support systems.  Award-winning manufacturer of room-in-roof systems Smartroof, distributor of GRP building components Stockgap and manufacturer of innovative A1 non-combustible cavity tray solutions, Keyfix, have also achieved this impressive target. 

These Keystone Group brands have created a portfolio of innovative and low carbon impact products that are designed and engineered to offer the best in class. These pioneering solutions include Hi-therm+ Lintels. Featuring a patented thermal isolator, this product solution is up to five times more thermally efficient than a standard lintel, and delivers a 40% reduction in carbon emissions.  Similarly, Smartroof’s room-in-roof technology has been future-proofed with a range of U-value options and junction details to deliver SAP ratings and achieve Future Homes Standards to 2025. Keylite’s patented expanding thermal collar is also a game-changer, providing the only assured solution to address thermal performance in roof window installation for tomorrow’s homes. 
 

Showersave’s wastewater heat recovery systems offer an impressive 10,000kg CO2e saving over their lifetime – equivalent to charging 1.2 million smartphones.  Keywall’s Brick Slip Rain Screen Cladding System, with its 22,500kg CO2e saving compared to traditional build further demonstrates Keystone’s commitment to minimising carbon footprints. With Keylite products being 97% recyclable at the end of life cycle, the brand is testament to the circular economy principles that underpin Keystone’s sustainability ethos.   

People first 

As well as the importance of monitoring our carbon emissions, the group is dedicated to cultivating a culture that prioritises employee wellbeing, diversity, and empowerment. Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this people-centric approach is crucial for driving environmental progress and tackling climate change. 

Keystone is implementing a comprehensive range of initiatives to support its employees’ mental and physical health while fostering a sense of shared purpose. Programs like Diversity and Inclusion, Key to Lead leadership development, and the Employee Assistance Programme ensure an equitable, supportive environment. Meanwhile, platforms such as Keystaff social network, Employee Awards, and Keyfit wellbeing program boost morale, recognise excellence, and promote work-life balance. By interweaving social responsibility with its sustainability efforts, Keystone aims to ingrain eco-friendly practices into its company culture, empowering every employee to be an agent of positive change. 

The journey to becoming a sustainable business is a critical objective for all Keystone Group brands as they progress towards 2030 and beyond.  Keystone recognises the importance, as well as the urgency, to focus on protecting our environment by improving its business operations. At a critical juncture for our planet, Keystone is playing a part in this global challenge by operating responsibly and putting our future first.