Danish sanitaryware leader Ifö, part of the Geberit Group, strengthens its commitment to the circular economy by launching detailed documentation to support selective demolition and recycling of its toilets and washbasins. This initiative aims to extend product life cycles, reduce waste, and respond to increasing demand for sustainable building practices across Europe.
© Geberit
Ifö has developed a comprehensive dismantling manual designed to simplify the removal and reuse of its products. Crucially, the toilets and washbasins are now free from harmful chemicals such as lead and zinc oxide, making them particularly suitable for recycling in the future.
Rasmus Dyhr, Head of Product Management at Geberit, states: 'We take responsibility for reducing waste and ensuring that our products can be reused. This is an important step towards a more circular economy.' He emphasises the brand's ongoing support beyond product life, adding, 'Not alone have we instructions for dismantling, but we offer a complete spare parts programme with a guarantee of delivery for 10 years after a model is discontinued. This ensures access to repairs rather than unnecessary waste.'
Porcelain, the core material used in Ifö's products, is highlighted as a highly durable natural material with a long lifespan. Its design facilitates disassembly, cleaning, and reinstallation after maintenance, maximising reuse potential. The removable spare parts, including toilet seats, underpin this sustainable approach.
Responding to rising interest from both public and private sectors, Ifö's recycling and dismantling guidelines include comprehensive plumbing component details and direct links to spare parts and installation manuals. This supports compliance with selective demolition regulations and contributes to DGNB certification points, increasingly sought in European sustainable construction.
Further extending its circular efforts, Geberit has partnered with J. Jensen Genbrug, specialists in collecting, cleaning, and refurbishing building materials, including toilets. This collaboration prolongs product lifespans and reduces landfill waste by ensuring reusable sanitaryware is returned to good condition.
An overview of toilets and washbasins suitable for reuse is now available for download via Ifö's documentation.
More information:
Geberit
www.geberit.co.za