Honoured for pioneering climate protection

The construction of an apartment block by VE Holding, part of Echterhage Holding, impressed the jury with its environmentally friendly construction methods. The building in Küntrop, which comprises eight residential units, was constructed mainly from spruce cross laminated timber, with concrete only being used for the basement and the lift shaft.

The building fulfils the requirements of the 55 EE efficiency house standard and implements the highest environmental and renewable energy standards. Heat is generated using geothermal energy and a brine-to-water heat pump. A PV system with 40 kWp supplies the general electricity and the heat pump and will also serve the tenants in future as part of a tenant electricity model.

The airtight, diffusion-open construction, windows with triple glazing, external insulation made of wood fibre insulation boards and a wooden façade made of thermal pine contribute to the thermal efficiency. An oversized cistern provides irrigation for the green areas of this and other rental properties. Tenants also have access to charging points and charging stations for e-bikes.

Great importance is attached to regionality when selecting the trades involved. Only products and materials that are durable and low-maintenance are used. Wood, as a renewable and recyclable raw material, reduces CO₂ emissions and supports sustainable construction. The use of renewable energies offers tenants a secure, resource-efficient and cost-stable energy supply.

The manufacturing company DST, part of Echterhage Holding, is also committed to sustainability. DST has reorganised its entire packaging chain and has completely done away with plastic packaging and PVC adhesive tape. Instead, paper alternatives are used for all packaging, including adhesive tape and bubble wrap. In addition, the packaging is not printed with the logo so that customers can reuse it.