Let's face it, no one has to entertain outdoors, but a pergola, outdoor kitchen or firepit is very much an integral part of modern living for many people - and it will probably remain so for the foreseeable future, 

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We've looked in depth of how we might support the change in energy use that has come with the green economy.

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IKON bioclimatic pergolas are created and designed with "intelligent technology" that allows light to enter, favours the natural recycling of air and represents an important shield from the sun. The result? Especially during the summer season, our bioclimatic pergolas involve less use of cooling system and thanks to the innovative deign, allow to be shielded from rain.

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Furthermore, the Bioclimatic blades exploit the summer breezes to ventilate our spaces; they are solutions designed for 365 days a year, in fact they open to the sun during the winter and close in the summer, adapting perfectly to the characteristics of the climatic conditions. Not only advantages from a thermal and light point of view but a 100% ecological solution that involves the rational use of natural resources.

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The blades may also be specified with insulation to reduce variations in temperature.

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We also supply heating and cooking products that use electricity, wood and gas and we have introduced systems - where that has been technically possible - which have already reduced running costs.

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Not only that, but many of the materials we use to hand-make our products are natural and sustainable. The lightweight nature of manufacture - compared to traditional methods, ensures that shipping uses less carbon.

 

So, here's the lowdown on energy use:

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NATURAL GAS

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Today, natural gas allows billions of people worldwide to enjoy access to lower carbon heat and power. And, as the world works towards net zero emissions we think that natural gas and hydrogen will play an important role in getting us all there.

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Natural gas has far lower emissions than wood when burnt for heat or cooking and is a much cleaner way of generating electricity. Switching from coal to gas has cut more than 500 million tonnes* of CO2 from the power sector this decade alone. 

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And, as electricity production increasingly switches to renewable sources, gas can be a flexible partner to wind and solar, providing quick and reliable back-up power whatever the weather. Gas plus renewables has helped the UK to lower emissions to levels last seen in the 19th century. 

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LPG

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All of our gas products will operate on BioLPG. It’s renewable. It’s sustainable. It's made from a blend of waste, residues and sustainably sourced materials and is a great step in the green direction.

 

​BioLPG is chemically identical to LPG and is compatible with all our gas-fired products, but this gas has a greener twist. BioLPG has absolutely no compromise on performance, so it's as energy efficient as natural gas or conventional LPG, whilst supporting us all to achieve a greener tomorrow. 
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With BioLPG, we can all do our bit for the environment, whilst we provide a reliable and sustainable heat source. One step at a time, and with your help, we’ll reduce carbon emissions together. 

 

NOW WHAT ABOUT OUR OWN BUSINESS?

 

Some small components are still made overseas, but where we can we source mainly from Europe to reduce travelling distances.

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Sustainability is now at the heart of every new product development.

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​We have minimised business travel - for example site visits, by the use of online digital information and digitised processes wherever possible.

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We always try to procure sustainably sourced components and minimise packaging wherever possible, in line with our business needs.

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​If we have to print anything at all, it is always as minimal as possible, having implemented digitised processing throughout the business and the use of email correspondence in place of Royal Mail.

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​We have no additional heating in our business space, relying on our own products to do the work - and no air conditioning. We use energy-efficient LED lighting and have incorporated control by smartphone/tablet app or home automation.

 

​Waste management can be a challenge for small business. We have engaged with suppliers to maximise the efficient use and disposal of waste materials such as packaging and we don't print brochures or price lists any more.

 

​Clearly, it mustn't stop there and we continually review new developments to ascertain if we can usefully implement them.