Partner Days Site Visit: Exploring Sustainable Solutions with KORE and the Interreg Circular Reno Project

At KORE, we are always looking for inspiration and innovation in the realm of sustainability. As part of our participation in the Interreg, Circular Reno project, we recently embarked on an exciting journey to Chênelet, a pioneering eco-village nestled in the heart of France. originally their main aim was to focus on the social aspect of this project through training, farming and employing local people which then expanded to the other various elements of the project. Our visit provided us with insightful information and most definitely left us inspired. We are thrilled to share our experience of Chênelet and all it has to offer with you!

Chênelet isn’t just a place, it is a vision for a better future. Chênelet is an industrial social enterprise with the aim of achieving a more ecological value chain. They focus on four key sites Andruicq, Landrethun-Le- Nord, Signy – Le – Petit and Toucy. What we found unique about Chênelet was their incorporation of community, not only in the sustainable materials they produce but also in the way they work. They provide courses and training to those who are at a disadvantage in the labour market and are then introduced to the regional companies minimising both social and environmental issues through their project.

ANDRUICQ

We visited The Andruicq factory which produces wood panels with straw and wood wool insulation through a 100% natural and ecological process while allowing for customisation. There are many benefits with the process they have developed for producing these panels such as better air tightness, thermal comfort and reducing heating requirements resulting in lower energy consumption and therefore bills for residents too!

LES GITES DU CHENELET

This eco – friendly accommodation not only promotes sustainable tourism but also offers guests the opportunity to experience responsible travel while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding natural environment. We got to observe its use of ecological materials such as the wooden frame and straw insulation, green roof, mud bricks, hybrid natural ventilation, rainwater recovery, pellet stove, water heater and solar panels which all act as components to making it possible for the gites to achieve high levels of thermal efficiency in their housing. It was truly fascinating to learn more about how this site acts a contributor to positive change from the construction process to the use of the building currently. It has provided benefits to not only the environment but to employees as part of the integration process and training.

As part of our trip, we also got the opportunity to experience other informative and well-structured sites such as Tourcoing Confidences and Maison Du Projet La Lainiere.

TOURCOING CONFIDENCES

This is a Vilogia showcase site containing 32 houses. Its aim is to use wooden structured façade panels with straw insulation giving a great insight into how a project like this begins. Visiting this site allowed us to observe how this initiative serves as a model for sustainable urban development and community revitalisation through its combination of modern architecture and energy efficient design.

MAISON DU PROJET DE LA LAINIERE

This was another interesting site as it is the first French building using a ‘Cradle to Cradle’ approach creating a cycle for the production process that eliminates waste and contributes positively to ecosystems and society. Here, we got to view the well-structured building that has been made up of bio-sourced elements that can be reused in the future.

Our visit to the Chênelet, Tourcoing Confidences and Maison Du Projet La Lainiere was nothing short of transformative. Witnessing firsthand the processes and seamless integration of sustainability has left an indelible mark on our team. From the innovative use of renewable energy sources to the attention to waste reduction, these sites most definitely serve as a model of inspiration for our business. As we embrace the information gained from this trip, we look forward to growing with more innovative solutions and contributing to a more sustainable future for generations to come. This trip has not only inspired us, but it has empowered us to be agents of change in our pursuit of a greener, more sustainable world!