Tile Association’s collaborative drive accelerates sector’s path to Net Zero

Sustainability in the tile industry, while complex and data-intensive, is increasingly being addressed through collaborative efforts and practical guidance, helping businesses of all sizes navigate the challenges ahead. The Tile Association’s (TTA) Sustainability Working Group plays a pivotal role in this effort by offering support and expertise to members and the wider industry, with a clear focus on reducing carbon emissions and preparing for emerging government regulations. Their overarching goal aligns with the UK’s commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050, a target that requires engagement not only from large corporations with turnovers exceeding £10 million but also from smaller enterprises keen to future-proof their operations.

The TTA is actively fostering industry-wide sustainability advancements by showcasing leading examples of companies committed to eco-friendly practices. Among these are Nicholls & Clarke Group, a manufacturer and distributor that has integrated sustainability into every facet of its operations—from electric fleet vehicles and solar energy usage to efficient manufacturing and responsible sourcing. Similarly, contractor Telling (Finishings) Ltd exemplifies sustainability by monitoring vital data like travel and fuel mileage as well as waste management and recycling, bolstering its market reputation through accreditations such as Constructionline Gold and the Supply Chain Sustainability School. Retailer Topps Group has centred its sustainability strategy around circular economy principles and reducing its carbon footprint, recently publishing its inaugural Scope 3 emissions and focusing on reducing tile waste and ensuring recyclable packaging.

Educational initiatives also form a cornerstone of the TTA’s approach. Through partnership with the Supply Chain Sustainability School, an award-winning virtual learning platform with over 50,000 members, the association encourages businesses to engage in sustainability training covering Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. The school’s extensive programme of more than 350 sessions annually ranges from introductory webinars to in-depth workshops, enabling individuals and organisations to earn Bronze, Silver, or Gold membership status. These accreditations not only enhance professional credibility but also demonstrate commitment in tendering and marketing efforts. The school is widely supported by leading construction firms and serves as a vital resource for improving sustainability skills throughout the built environment sector.

Furthermore, TTA promotes responsible sourcing, urging members to scrutinise the environmental credentials of tiles imported from overseas. Collaboration with European tile industry bodies such as ASCER in Spain and Confindustria Ceramica in Italy aids in highlighting manufacturer efforts to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints. Educational trips and international trade shows repeatedly underline how innovation and sustainability are intertwined in product development. The association also endorses standards like BES 6001 for responsible sourcing and reminds members to check for country-of-origin markings on tiles as a quality benchmark reflecting compliance with recognised supply chain standards.

This multi-faceted approach—combining practical case studies, skills development, and responsible sourcing—illustrates how the tile industry is steadily advancing towards sustainability goals. The TTA’s initiatives provide valuable frameworks and resources for businesses at various stages of their sustainability journey, fostering a collective commitment that safeguards people, planet, and the long-term viability of companies.