The visit forms part of a wider programme designed to strengthen links with industry in the government’s bid to cut carbon emissions, create the conditions for green growth and improve resilience to climate change.
Accompanied by Mike Chaldecott, managing director of British Gypsum, and Mike Emson, plant manager at the site, Gregory Barker was given a guided tour of British Gypsum’s Robertsbridge plant, providing an insight into the processes involved in plasterboard manufacture. British Gypsum is part of the Saint-Gobain Group, the world leader in designing, manufacturing and distributing construction materials.
They also took part in a briefing session to discuss some of the key issues affecting the manufacturing and construction industries, including the skills shortage, the requirement for improved energy efficiency in existing buildings, the impact of regulations and taxes on UK businesses and the need to ensure the UK remains an attractive prospect for investment by manufacturing companies.
Gregory Barker comments: “The UK needs manufacturing businesses that create growth and jobs as well as contributing to a cleaner environment through the development of energy efficient products and systems. Companies such as British Gypsum will play a key role in the transition to a greener economy and we are keen to ensure the industry receives the support it needs to remain competitive as we move towards a low carbon future.”
Mike Chaldecott adds: “Fostering a deeper understanding between government and industry is essential if we are to successfully meet the challenges facing our
society. Delivering more sustainable built environments through energy efficient and comfortable housing is a key part of this challenge and we were delighted to welcome Gregory Barker to our Robertsbridge site to see how we’re doing this.
“Developing a closer working relationship with government will enable us to ensure a more joined up approach throughout the supply chain to educate end users and equip construction industry professionals with the skills and knowledge required to successfully meet targets.
“Saint-Gobain’s manufacturing businesses in the UK are committed not only to developing products and solutions for a greener future but also to ensuring that their own operations are as sustainable as possible. British Gypsum is a prime example, last year becoming the first plaster and plasterboard manufacturer in the UK to achieve zero production waste to landfill.”
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