Carving a Sustainable Future: The Stone Industry and Sustainability.

The topic of sustainability, using a play on words, is becoming increasingly prominent in these times, involving everyone, including the stone industry. Often associated with majestic historical buildings, monuments, and artworks, the stone supply chain is facing significant challenges related to the environment and sustainability.

In fact, this was the focus of discussion in the previous edition of Marmomac, the global trade fair dedicated to the entire stone production chain, where the Authentic Natural Stone Sustainability Manifesto was presented, and promoted by the PNA network.

What is it about?

This is the first step to highlight the inherently “naturally sustainable” characteristic of stone material, a commitment put into writing where companies commit to adopting a certified and circular production cycle, limiting environmental impacts on air, water, and CO2 emissions.

The programmatic document is structured into 10 points:

1. 1. 1. The 3 dimensions of environmental, economic, and social sustainability.
      2. Goals of the UN’s 2030 climate agenda.
      3. Measuring ESG criteria.
      4. Toward environmental regeneration.
      5. Innovation, research, and development.
      6. Circular economy of waste.
      7. Green standards for design and construction.
      8. Well-being, health, and safety of living and working environments.
      9. Development of Made in Italy.
      10. Corporate responsibility in a new economy of relationships.

“The Manifesto is just a starting point,” states Stefano Ghirardi, President of the PNA Network. “The beginning of a virtuous journey that fits into the value chain that our sector must convey to the world of design and construction. Using natural stone is useful, sustainable, and beautiful. That’s why we decided to join forces and invest together in this direction, with a logic of networking and collaboration.”

What does sustainability mean to us at LAPIS VITAE?

Our company is taking concrete actions to be part of this sustainability project that involves the entire stone supply chain. One of our most significant projects that we are proud to share is the FILTROPRESSA machine.

This machinery separates solid content from water in a mixture with the aim of recovering and reusing the water in any production cycle.

Specifically, calcium carbonate, the sediment present in the waste content, is separated from the water. The filtropressa then compacts and squeezes this material. The solid sediments are transported in a truck, while the remaining water is cleaned in a settling tank and put back into circulation for the company’s subsequent processes.

In conclusion

The stone industry is demonstrating a tangible commitment to sustainability, embracing a vision that integrates the environment, economy, and social well-being. Companies are adopting innovative practices, optimizing production processes, and promoting corporate responsibility in the context of a relationship-based economy.
This path towards sustainability not only protects our planet but also contributes to creating a future where the natural beauty of stones merges with ecological responsibility. With an eye on current challenges and another on innovation, the stone industry is carving a sustainable future that reflects the value of natural resources and respect for future generations.