The Builders: How REP is Reinventing the Building Industry - Interview with Mathieu Hiblot
In the most recent episode of our podcast The Builders, we had the pleasure of welcoming Mathieu Hiblot, Deputy Director of Ecominéro, to discuss a crucial subject: the evolution of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in the building industry. This exchange is a dive into the heart of current ecological challenges and the innovations that are transforming the sector.
1. REP, a Major Turning Point for the Sector
The REP, which came into force 18 months ago, requires building companies to take care of the life cycle of waste from their activities. This regulatory framework is pushing the sector to review its practices to minimize environmental impact. For Mathieu Hiblot, this regulation, although perceived as a constraint at the beginning, paves the way for profound and lasting transformations. Businesses now have to take responsibility for managing their waste, which is fundamentally changing the way they produce and use materials.
2. Eco-Modulation: A Key Tool to Stimulate Innovation
One of the key concepts discussed in the episode is that of eco-modulation. This mechanism adjusts the financial contributions of businesses according to their efforts to reduce their ecological footprint. Hiblot explains that this system encourages more sustainable practices, by rewarding companies that use eco-designed materials or that optimize the management of their waste. This means long-term savings and, above all, an incentive to innovate, both in terms of materials and industrial processes.
3. Digitalization and the Environment: A Winning Synergy
Richad Mitha, CEO of Synaxe and host of the podcast, also emphasized the importance of digitalization to meet environmental challenges. Optimizing processes through digital technologies not only reduces costs, but also reduces the carbon footprint of the industry. Mathieu Hiblot emphasized that the digitization of waste management tools allows better traceability and facilitates the recycling of materials. For example, digital platforms offer a clearer view of the entire product lifecycle, thus strengthening circular economy practices.
4. Towards a Greener and More Competitive Industry
The main message of this episode is clear: EPR and eco-modulation tools are not simple regulatory obligations. They represent real opportunities for companies to reinvent their practices. Hiblot and Mitha agree that, despite the initial investments required for the transition, the adoption of sustainable solutions will strengthen the competitiveness of businesses in the long term. This shift towards greener practices is not only beneficial for the environment, but also for the profitability of businesses in the building sector.
This episode of The Builders perfectly illustrates how new regulations and digitalization are transforming the building industry. By talking to leaders like Mathieu Hiblot, we hope to inspire other actors to adopt more sustainable practices, while seizing the opportunities offered by this new industrial era.
You can listen to this episode in full on the usual platforms like:
Apple Podcast:Apple Podcast：“The Builders” Podcast Series
Podcast on Spotify: [EXCERPT] - Understanding eco-modulation with Mathieu Hiblot - The Builders | Podcast on Spotify