This approach must be implemented in companies according to their sector of activity:

• In construction, decarbonization is based on renovation, the gradual phasing out of fossil fuels, improved energy efficiency, energy sobriety, and new standards for new constructions.
• For agriculture, it involves reducing methane, nitrous oxide, and CO2 emissions.
• In the transport sector, it is essential to implement mobility plans, switch to low-carbon vehicles, and conduct a carbon assessment.
• Industry must meet several requirements, including a 55% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030, followed by carbon neutrality in 2050.

Decarbonization techniques

There are different techniques to reduce the carbon footprint:

• CO2 sequestration is a solution for storing carbon emissions outside the atmosphere. It is achieved naturally through photosynthesis or the dissolution of atmospheric carbon in the oceans.
• Renewable energies are essential for producing electricity and heating.
• Energy efficiency improves the performance of appliances and installations, thus reducing consumption.

Decarbonization in the construction materials sector

The construction sector must comply with RE2020. This environmental regulation concerns new constructions and is structured around these axes:

• Improving energy performance and reducing building consumption. It focuses particularly on insulation performance and heating systems.
• Reducing harmful emissions, waste, and extending the lifespan of interior finishing works throughout the building's life cycle;
• Improving building comfort, especially during cold spells and heatwaves.

Solutions exist to decarbonize this sector, including the use of low-carbon concrete and wood. The reuse and recycling of materials should also be prioritized.

Decarbonization of Carpeting: A Special Case

At Orak, our eco-responsible commitment translates into a specific analysis of the carbon footprint of carpeting and strategies to reduce its impact.

• Use of carpet tiles with a high recycled material component for the underlay and polyamide yarn;
• Choice of low-emission carpets by reducing the amount of CO2 produced per m2 with committed brands such as Milliken, Interface;
• Environmentally friendly manufacturing processes: some French manufacturers are reorganizing their industrial production to protect the planet, for example Balsan.

Furthermore, carpet maintenance is at the heart of the decarbonization process for construction materials. Regular carpet maintenance extends its lifespan, which is fully in line with RE2020.

In addition, Orak offers options for reusing and recovering carpet tiles. Before removing your carpet, an assessment determines its condition. Eligible carpet tiles can then be reused on another client site. As for damaged tiles, they will be recovered.

Concretely, Orak ensures more than 40% reuse of carpet tiles on the surfaces managed. This helps save 8 tons of CO2 for every 1000 m2.

To conclude on decarbonization

Decarbonization is an essential process for preserving the environment. It must be implemented without delay in various sectors of activity for a greener and more sustainable future. Construction materials, particularly carpeting, have an important role to play in this process. Orak is committed by choosing brands that reduce their environmental impact and by ensuring the maintenance, reuse, and recycling of carpet tiles.