“Debitumenization”, the new urban challenge
Saint-Gobain Abrasives and its leading brand Norton Clipper have put together a comprehensive range of tools to help restore permeable soils in urban areas and meet the challenges of climate change. In so doing, they are positioning themselves in a market with strong growth potential.
For decades, the developers of our squares, avenues, streets and parking lots have waterproofed them for ease of use and maintenance, whatever the season. With the acceleration of climate change and the increased frequency of extreme weather events, priorities have been reversed. In cities, the aim is now to prevent water run-off and the formation of heat islands by restoring the natural absorption and temperature-regulation functions of the soil. The need for biodiversity refuges and the growing demand for green spaces are transforming cities in the same direction. The time has come for renaturing – or “debitumenization”.
For public works companies, this is almost a new field of activity. Saint-Gobain Abrasives, through its leading brand Norton Clipper, has all the tools needed to carry out this type of work with precision and efficiency. Whether cutting, drilling or scarifying thick layers of concrete or bitumen, or re-cutting slabs for new uses, its comprehensive range offers all the solutions needed while ensuring operator comfort and safety.
From flood risk areas to unused parking lots, small and large-scale land reclamation projects contribute to the ecological transition. The Norton Clipper range of machines, currently being developed in the Southern Europe, Middle East and Africa Region, is ready to be rolled out to the Group’s other Regions, in line with local needs. Saint-Gobain is thus positioning itself in a market with strong growth potential, on which the well-being of future generations depends.
To find out more, see the infographic here
