ASBP Unveils Shortlist for Innovation Pitch 2: Pioneering Solutions to Reduce Plastic in Construction

2

The Alliance for Sustainable Building Products (ASBP) in collaboration with the ASBP Reducing Plastics in Construction Group, is excited to reveal the shortlist for the eagerly awaited Innovation Pitch 2 competition. This competition is for innovators, startups, and manufacturers who are introducing new product lines or services, particularly those offering alternatives to traditional plastic building materials and packaging. Whether in the early stages of development, market-ready, or recently launched, we welcome a spectrum of innovations

After a thorough selection process, the ASBP has identified 6 of the most promising and impactful innovations. These shortlisted candidates will be featured on the ASBP website and in communications leading up to the announcement of the finalists. The finalists will be unveiled in the week prior to the Reducing Plastics in Construction Summit, where each will have the opportunity to pitch one final time to determine the ultimate judges’ and people’s prize winners.

Reducing Plastics in Construction Summit

This Plastic Free July, delve into the latest findings, initiatives, and strategies aimed at minimising, reusing, and recycling plastics within the industry.

Date: Thursday 16th July 2024
Timings: 14:00-16:00
Cost: Free
Location: Online

Meet the 6 shortlisted entries!

KEIM Twinstar

Around 410,000 tonnes of paint are used annually in the UK decorative market, often containing plasticizers, resins, or polymers that break down into microplastics and pollute the environment. KEIM Twinstar eliminates these harmful components. This innovative ‘two-in-one’ mineral paint, designed for exterior applications, is eco-friendly, sustainable, water-repellent, and weather-resistant. It allows for base and top coats to be applied in one step, reducing application time and costs. KEIM Twinstar is also fire-resistant, UV-stable, and certified by Natureplus and Cradle to Cradle. Brushes and rollers can be washed without polluting water systems, and unused paint can be disposed of safely.

Morph Bricks

Morph is a revolutionary modular construction system made from eco-friendly materials. Its components—single and double bricks, base, and top caps—feature a patented male-to-female click connection system, allowing the creation of partition walls, freestanding rooms, and furniture. Designed for various markets, Morph partners with material innovators to use recycled ABS plastic and plant-based bioplastic. The system reduces CO2 emissions by 80% compared to virgin plastic and supports the circular economy by allowing bricks to be reused or recycled. Quick to install, requiring no specialist skills, Morph offers significant cost savings and minimal environmental impact, disrupting wasteful practices in construction.

Multipor Mineral Insulation for Plinth Areas

Traditionally, extruded polystyrene (XPS) is used to insulate areas with high moisture content, but it poses environmental and health risks, including microplastics and toxic exposure. Multipor, made from lime, cement, and sand, offers a safer alternative. It forms a vapour-permeable, breathable plinth insulation ideal for both historic and modern buildings. Additionally, Multipor is non-combustible and biologically inert, with Natureplus certification. It can also be used for lining basements, including salt-contaminated constructions, avoiding the need for plastic insulation. This mineral board is easy to cut, shape, and bond, providing an eco-friendly and safe solution for insulation needs.

PAINT ZERO

PAINT ZERO offers safe, sustainable decor paints made from 100% plant extracts, natural minerals, and salts, available in 75 colours. Packaged in lightweight powder pouches, customers mix it with tap water for vibrant wall paints in 90 seconds. Bio-compostable ingredients and packaging eliminate landfill waste and ocean microplastics. PAINT ZERO reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 90% compared to mainstream paints, with 75% lower transport costs and emissions. It provides excellent coverage, is fume-free, low VOC, and mold-resistant, creating a healthier indoor environment. Affordable and easy to use, it can be ordered online and stored long-term in resealable packs.

GRIMMEGJERDE Eco-House

Our concept empowers customers to build their own eco-friendly house with our on-site, digital, and email support. These houses use materials that act as long-term carbon sinks and are designed for longevity and reusability. Built to be off-grid with tested solar solutions, they can be constructed virtually anywhere. Our modern take on classic Swedish log houses uses only wooden materials and thick cellulose insulation, eliminating the need for plastics and airtight solutions. This sustainable approach ensures an economical, environmentally friendly, and healthy living space for many years.

Repurposing Post-Consumer Plastic Bottles to Improve Thermal Performance and Reduce Concrete Use in Construction

Plastic waste poses a significant environmental risk. While recycling converts used plastic into new products, repurposing plastic consumes less energy and produces fewer CO₂ emissions. Concrete production is another major CO₂ emitter. Combining these issues, this study explores using plastic bottles to reduce concrete use and emissions. Tests showed that incorporating shredded or whole plastic bottles into concrete improves thermal performance and displaces 14% of the concrete. This method, like other similar (but not using repurposed plastic) technology, reduces CO₂ emissions and concrete usage. Further research could solidify these benefits for the construction industry, aiding both plastic waste reduction and sustainability goals.