Rockcycle and Beddeleem are building a circular future together.
At Beddeleem, we believe that workspaces should not only be functional and aesthetically pleasing, but also sustainable and circular. From that conviction, we launched the recycling of mineral wool residual streams through Rockcycle, the recycling programme of ROCKWOOL and Rockfon, in 2023.
A logical step within our sustainability strategy, in which we proactively explore ways to reduce waste and give materials a second life. For us, circularity is not a buzzword but a conscious choice. We invest resources, people and time to truly make a difference.
Mineral wool waste becomes new raw material
Through Rockcycle, Beddeleem gives its residual streams of ROCKWOOL mineral wool insulation and Rockfon ceiling tiles a new purpose. “Both from our production site and now also directly from larger construction sites, we collect this waste separately. Renewi then collects the containers on request. We recycle what we can. In the past, it all ended up as residual waste — fortunately that has changed,” says Wim De Winne (Logistics Manager, Beddeleem).
Together with Renewi, a system was developed in which containers are used to separate mineral wool waste from other materials, inspect it, and then deliver it to ROCKWOOL for recycling. The material is reused as a secondary raw material for new high-quality mineral wool products, reducing waste and significantly lowering the need for primary raw materials.
Strong partnerships enable smooth workflows
The collaboration between all parties runs smoothly. This trusted relationship and short communication lines make the difference. All orders for ROCKWOOL mineral wool insulation for Beddeleem are handled by Ets. Charles Wille in Mouscron and are delivered Just in Time, in the exact quantities needed at that moment. This enables efficient operations and avoids surplus materials.
Practical recycling
Circularity starts with ambition, but it must also be workable in practice. “When something needs to be done, they act quickly. Our Rockcycle contact even visited our site. Together we examined how we could improve the process. In the beginning, containers with mineral wool waste had to be stored indoors. In practice, especially on construction sites, that was challenging. After analysing the return flows, we were able to adjust this. Containers can now be placed outdoors, which simplifies logistics significantly,” says Wim De Winne.
“We don’t just want to follow — we want to help shape sustainable solutions,” adds Anne De Coninck (Sustainability Officer).
Raising awareness across the sector
What Beddeleem does with Rockcycle is not limited to our own company. It serves as an example for the entire construction sector. “We need to do this together as an industry. Circularity is not a trend — it is the future. By openly sharing our experiences, we hope to inspire others to take the same step,” says Anne De Coninck. Awareness around circular construction is growing in Belgium, but wider adoption is still needed. Programmes like Rockcycle help accelerate that shift.
Because things can and should be different
“Thanks to the Rockcycle collaboration between ROCKWOOL, Rockfon, Renewi and our own efforts at Beddeleem, we now recycle mineral wool in an efficient, workable and sustainable way. Not just because we have to, but because we believe it can and should be done better. We are happy to take on that pioneering role, but aim to see this embraced across the entire sector,” concludes Anne De Coninck.
