'Put stock in hot bricks? The US asset manager, Blackrock, increased its stake in Ibstock Plc from 5% to 12%. It's now the largest shareholder in the UK’s biggest brickmaker. But a brick is just a brick, right? When you consider environmental and social factors, one brick starts looking very different from another. It turns out not all bricks are created equal.' — Ben Holmes Locally produced bricks can offer better sustainability and cultural outcomes for three reasons: 1. 𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐨𝐧 𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 Shipping a million clay bricks from Turkey to the UK produces over 29,000 kg of emissions. Local production can significantly cut transportation distances, saving carbon and cost while boosting regional economies. 2. 𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 Bricks from some exporters have been linked to child labour and poor working conditions. By prioritising locally made bricks, we can reduce the risks of unethical practices in supply chains. 3. 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 Local bricks reflect regional character, blending seamlessly with traditional architecture. From London Stock to Midlands Red, using local materials ensures new and restored buildings retain their sense of place. Where did your brick come from? Full story ⬇️ https://lnkd.in/eQuhzadX ETHICS 2.0 ⬇️ https://lnkd.in/euc_Cu8A
Tom Bunn
2mo
Alexis Harrison - sounds like you and Ben Holmes need to chat (if not already) around bringing a stronger focus on ethical brick procurement based on your talk last night
Mark Leeson
2mo
Andrew Shepherd and I were just discussing this very topic yesterday! It is awesome the options available to designers now whilst being very responsible specifiers! Homework and an enquiring mind is required though to ensure you choose the right one!
Technical Director
2moAkbar Javadi, FICE, CEng