Michael Davies, Head of Innovation and Carbon Reduction at AG Paving and Building Products, highlights the positive impact of opting for locally manufactured products.
In an era where sustainability is becoming the cornerstone of the construction industry, the origin of materials can profoundly affect not only the success of projects but also the wellbeing of the broader community and environment.
Assurance and continuity of supply
Global supply chains are notoriously vulnerable to disruptions, as evidenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, the infamous Suez Canal blockage in 2021 and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
The recent attacks on ships passing through the Suez Canal resulted in the rerouting of over 100 container ships around southern Africa, tacking on an additional 6,000 nautical miles to the typical journey from Asia. This redirection caused product delivery times to extend by an extra 3 to 4 weeks, accompanied by unforeseen costs, causing container shipping rates to skyrocket by over 300% in just three months.
This persistent uncertainty underscores the inherent risks of relying solely on international supply chains. For residential projects, which often extend over long periods, local manufacturing ensures consistency in product size, colour, and finish, preventing last-minute adjustments and ensuring timely project completion.
Lower environmental impact
Locally manufactured products generally have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to imported alternatives, mainly due to the reduced transportation distances. Additionally, manufacturing companies in Britain and Ireland adhere to stringent environmental regulations, reflecting the UK and EU’s ambitious commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The environmental advantages of local sourcing are further underscored when considering supply chain disruptions like the Suez Canal blockage. Such incidents result in longer transportation routes, increased fuel consumption, and consequently higher greenhouse gas emissions and ocean pollution. By opting for locally sourced materials, you can mitigate these adverse environmental impacts, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly construction industry.
High standards, local impact The UK is renowned for its high manufacturing standards, ensuring that products meet stringent quality criteria. At AG, they undergo regular inspection and auditing and the firms commitment to excellence has earned it multiple accreditations and standards, including BES 6001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and ISO 9001. These certifications provide credibility and peace of mind as well as documentation that can help streamline the planning approval process.
Choosing products manufactured within the UK and Ireland benefits both the local economy and community. By supporting local businesses, consumers help create and retain jobs, ensuring more stable employment opportunities. This circulation of money strengthens and builds more resilient local economies, reducing dependence on external markets and fostering long-term sustainability. This collective support enhances economic diversity, community pride, and overall wellbeing.
Crescent: A testament to local innovation and sustainability AG’s ‘Every Project, Every Time’ initiative underscores its dedication to providing value-driven solutions that optimise cost efficiencies, environmental impact, functionality, durability, and aesthetics – across paving, walling, brick and kerbs. Crescent, AG’s latest innovation, exemplifies this commitment by offering a high-quality, affordable solution that aligns with sustainable practices.
This entry-level flagstone is designed to bring AG’s renowned quality to a broader audience, offering durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal for various applications, including paths and patios. Engineered with a bevelled edge to mitigate chipping and a hard-wearing, finely textured surface to ensure low slip potential, Crescent delivers durability and safety for any residential development.
Available in three richly pigmented, colour-fast shades and three versatile sizes, the 450 x 450 x 50mm format is perfect for creating pathways. Manufactured in the UK with minimal secondary processing using 100% harvested rainwater, 100% renewable energy, and aggregates sourced exclusively from AG’s Fivemiletown quarry, the Crescent range provides a reliable, low-carbon, hard landscaping solution without compromising on quality.
By embracing locally sourced materials, housebuilders and property developers can ensure a steady supply chain, support local communities, and deliver high-quality, sustainable projects. The benefits of opting for locally manufactured products extend far beyond immediate project needs, contributing to long-term environmental and economic sustainability.
Reflecting on the importance of sourcing locally, Gordon Best, Regional Director at the Minerals Product Association Northern Ireland (MPANI), emphasises, “Globally, the construction industry is increasingly recognising the importance of sourcing materials that are readily available locally. Utilising locally manufactured products not only reduces carbon emissions associated with transportation but also fosters regional economic growth and resilience. It’s a win-win for both the environment and the community.”
