In 2024, we’ve been hard at work advancing our sustainability ambitions across the organisation. This page showcases a selection of projects that demonstrate the progress we’re making: from reducing waste and energy use to developing smarter materials. Each initiative reflects the practical steps we are taking to reduce our environmental impact and turn our sustainability goals into measurable results.
As part of CENTROTEC Industries, Centroplast integrates sustainability into every aspect of its business. From developing high-quality plastic
compounds and extruded profiles to supplying reliable system components for building and industrial applications, sustainability guides our
decisions and innovations. By combining technical expertise with a responsible approach to materials and production, we deliver solutions that
reduce environmental impact, support the energy transition, and contribute to durable, efficient, and future-ready buildings and systems.
Our R&D teams - including Alexander Kamen (photo) - in Brilon are creating lightweight, sustainable materials that help customers meet environmental goals: without compromising performance.
HempTape replaces glass fibre with renewable hemp, cutting energy use by up to 60% and CO₂ emissions by up to 35%. Prototypes, like a scooter seat shell, prove hemp can match traditional strength with a smaller footprint.
DiDe4Rec puts circularity at the core, combining lightweight construction, Design for Recycling, and digital material data to reduce material use and boost recyclability. These projects show how we turn sustainability ambitions into real, scalable solutions.
In 2024, we launched the Ubbink Buffer Tank at our Centrotherm plant in Brilon, Germany, starting production of the first 200 units using a one-piece flow process. All pipes, couplings, and valves are precisely welded to the top and bottom covers using a specially developed welding cell, ensuring top quality and reliability.
These assemblies are then joined to the sheet metal casing via precise round seam welding. Our systems can handle tanks up to 1.5 m in diameter and 2.5 m in length. After welding, each tank undergoes leak testing and foaming before being connected to the outer shell for stability and insulation.
“We are setting new standards in efficient, environmentally friendly, high-quality buffer tank production,” says Raino Rieseler, Managing Director of Centrotherm.
To meet new challenges and opportunities, our group is adopting more agile ways of working that complement our existing methods. Cross-group teams are already collaborating in new ways, supported by the “New Ways of Working” (NWoW) project team led by HR Director Susanne Frank. “It’s not only about new tools — we also need an open mindset and active exchange to respond flexibly to today’s challenges,” she explains.
Early initiatives include Mystery Coffee, launched in summer 2024 to help colleagues connect and spark new ideas, and the rollout of our Leading Principles, which guide how we work and lead across the group. A toolbox with templates for agile methods has also been introduced to support teamwork and personal development.oeps ik
Together, these initiatives help us work more effectively, develop our people, and stay agile for the future.
One of the brands that falls under CENTROTEC Industries, is Ubbink. Last year, Ubbink France invited six leading French trade journalists to visit our factory in Doesburg. Representing major industry publications, they share insights with a wide audience of installers, designers, architects, and technical experts.
The day began with a welcome and presentation from Group Marketing Director Stephanie Geelen and Steven Meun, who introduced our company and sustainability approach. They were later joined by R&D manager Robert Wantia, who highlighted our commitment to innovation and sustainable product development.
The visit concluded with a factory tour featuring technical demonstrations and discussions with our team, giving the journalists a clear look at our expertise, production processes, and future ambitions.