The construction industry accounts for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, making sustainability a critical concern for architects, builders, and manufacturers. Addressing this challenge requires collaboration between disciplines to develop solutions that reduce the environmental impact of building materials. In response to this need, NEUF architect(e)s, in partnership with masonry distributor Webster and concrete manufacturer Permacon, has introduced DUAL, an innovative concrete brick designed to lower carbon emissions by at least 20 percent.

Developed as part of NEUF’s Sustainable Strategies department, DUAL represents a significant advancement in sustainable construction materials. The initiative brings together three key industry players to create a product that meets modern building requirements while incorporating environmentally responsible practices. The partnership, established in 2022, aimed to develop a concrete brick that balances performance, aesthetics, and sustainability. After two years of research and testing at Permacon’s newest plant in Anjou, the product is now available on the market.

Innovation in Sustainable Materials
The DUAL concrete brick introduces several innovations that contribute to its reduced environmental impact. By incorporating a honeycomb structure, the design optimizes strength while reducing the amount of material required by nearly 30 percent compared to traditional concrete bricks. The inclusion of recycled materials further lowers its carbon footprint, and the product has been certified with an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), ensuring transparency in its environmental performance.

In addition to its sustainability benefits, the brick offers architectural flexibility. It is available in three natural shades—Zurich (grey), Petra (yellow), and Belfast (red)—and comes in two formats: Metric Norman and Metric Jumbo. Each brick features two usable faces, one smooth and one grooved, allowing for greater design adaptability. The honeycomb structure also facilitates easier handling on-site, making the installation process more efficient while reducing transportation emissions due to its lighter weight.

The Role of Collaboration in Sustainable Construction
Hugo Gagnon, Partner Architect and Sustainability Manager at NEUF, emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in bringing sustainable building materials to market. He noted that the firm played a key role in ensuring that the product met the needs of multiple stakeholders, including masons, developers, municipalities, and architects. By addressing both practical and environmental considerations, the team sought to create a material that could be seamlessly integrated into modern construction practices while contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

The significance of this innovation has also been highlighted by Webster & Sons and Permacon, both of whom have expressed their commitment to advancing sustainability in the construction sector. William Webster, President of Webster & Sons, stated that the company is dedicated to supporting architects with materials that expand design possibilities while prioritizing environmental responsibility. Similarly, Lucas Vallon, President of Permacon, reinforced the company’s focus on developing innovative solutions that actively reduce carbon emissions.

A Step Toward a Sustainable Future
The introduction of DUAL marks an important milestone in sustainable construction, providing architects, developers, and builders with an alternative to conventional masonry that is both functional and environmentally responsible. With ongoing studies to further reduce the carbon footprint of concrete products, the collaboration between NEUF, Webster, and Permacon represents a proactive approach to material innovation. By integrating sustainability into the development process, this initiative sets a precedent for the future of the construction industry.

Source: V2com
Photos: Virginie Gosselin / NEUF architect(e)s