UK Ceramic Industry’s Low Carbon Transition Revealed at 2024 Conference

Written By Louise Stevenson

The UK ceramics industry's commitment to achieving net zero emissions was on full display at the Delivering Net Zero Ceramics UK - 2024 Conference. Held yesterday at The Catalyst Building, Staffordshire University, the event attracted over 120 delegates from across the country. 

Hosted by Ceramics UK, the ceramics industry’s flagship conference explored key initiatives and concerns outlined in the organisation's new Decarbonisation Roadmap. Guest speakers from Futuremade (keynote), the Department of Energy Security & Net Zero, DNV, Carlton Carbon, Electrify Industry, Cogent Skills, and Ceramics UK itself provided insightful presentations.

The event also featured a vibrant exhibition area, engaging discussion panels, and a prestigious awards ceremony recognising exemplary companies and individuals leading the charge in decarbonisation: 

2024 Award Winners:

  • Delivering Decarbonisation: Ideal Standard

  • Decarbonisation in Action: Vulcan Refractories

  • Decarbonisation Trailblazers: Parkinson-Spencer Refractories, Ibstock PLC, Forterra PLC, Ideal Standard, Wavin

  • SME Decarbonisation: Dunoon Ceramics, York Handmade Brick

  • Individual Recognition Awards: Andrew Craddock (Ibstock PLC), George Stewart (Forterra PLC), Keith Jackson (Wienerberger), Paul Freeman (Michelmersh Brick Holdings)

Collaboration for Success: Industry & Government Working Together

Linked to the Decarbonisation Roadmap, a critical Industry Endorsement Statement was presented to government representatives at the conference. Receiving unanimous backing from Ceramics UK members, the statement emphasises the importance of continued collaboration between industry, government, and stakeholders. It underlines the need for supportive policies and resources that will enable the ceramics industry to achieve its ambitious net zero goals.

Ceramics UK Leading the Charge

Ceramics UK’s Associate Director, Lee Brownsword said: “It is crucial that UK ceramics producers can continue to innovate and invest to reduce emissions, whilst also staying competitive with companies overseas. UK ceramic producers are carrying out some exceptional work and this event is chance to recognise this, as well as ensure key research and learning is being disseminated.

 Decarbonisation is such an imperative industry issue, and this annual Conference draws considerable interest, with delegates from across the sector / suppliers, Government and other organisations. We thank our many event sponsors, speakers and exhibitors for their support as we continue working collaboratively towards Delivering Net Zero Ceramics UK.”

For More Information:

  • Lee Brownsword, Associate Director - Industrial & Environmental Policy

  • Rob Flello, Chief Executive

Louise Stevenson
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