Smart and circular thinking

It is clear to everyone: we cannot endlessly deplete the earth for the raw materials we need. EECULAIR is the sustainable approach of Van Ee Steel Specialists to make a structural contribution to circular- and future-oriented building.

Commercial director Gerben van Beek: "At Van Ee Staalspecialisten we set out a sustainability line for five years. In 2020 we did this again for the next five years. We want to take our social responsibility. EECULAIR is therefore embedded in our way of working. A sustainability team from the various disciplines within the company deals with this."

Van Ee Steel Specialists has had a new factory since 2017. With 2816 solar panels on the roof and a completely gas-free office. "We have LED lighting throughout the building and use electric forklifts." By itself, Van Beek says steel is a sustainable product. "Working with steel is sustainable. Steel structures are dimensionally stable and do not wear out, steel is less heavy than other construction materials, steel is 100% recyclable and it can be worked with quickly. However, it is also important to know where materials come from. We only work with steel from sustainable suppliers." 

Use of circular steel

Where possible, Van Ee Staalspecialisten reuses steel that has already been used in certain constructions. This is examined in advance for material quality by an independent and external specialist and also meets the highest quality requirements when reused. 

"We can also make structures with demountable connections that make it easier to reuse. Smart and circular design is also becoming increasingly important." 

Van Ee Steel Specialists also provides steel with a buy-back guarantee to promote steel reuse. The company guarantees that the steel will be taken back at the end of the life of the structure for a guaranteed minimum return on repurchase.

"Van Ee Steel Specialists works with 'Green Zinc' certified galvanized steel," says Van Beek. "Hot-dip galvanizing is still one of the most life-resistant preservations. Other coatings often require demonstrable cleaning several times a year for warranty reasons. Using 'Green Zinc' leads to lower maintenance costs and makes a significant contribution to a better environment and a greener future!" 

Van Ee continues the idea of sustainability right down to the packaging. "We always try to think of what can be done better. For example, we no longer pack circular projects with plastic but with recycled cloth whenever possible. We also use FSC stop wood and like to take it back for new shipments."