Sourcing Materials

Material selection has a significant influence on the environmental impact of a partitioning system. Our approach is to source materials through approved suppliers, supported by evidence that allows their recycled content, embodied carbon and responsible-sourcing credentials to be understood.

We work with our supply chain to improve the quality of environmental data available and to identify materials that can reduce impact without changing the required function or performance of the finished system.

Glass partitions manufactured with Lower-carbon aluminium

Optima’s extruded aluminium components are manufactured using aluminium containing a minimum of 75% post-consumer recycled content.

Lower-carbon aluminium at Optima

The aluminium is sourced through approved supply partners and has a declared embodied carbon value of less than 1.9 kg CO₂e per kg, supported by independently verified environmental data. Current approved sources report values between 1.62 and 1.86 kg CO₂e per kg of aluminium.

Using aluminium with a high proportion of post-consumer recycled content reduces the emissions associated with the aluminium used in our partitioning and door systems when compared with more carbon-intensive primary aluminium.

Glass and project-specific choices

Glass represents a significant proportion of many glazed partitioning systems. Its environmental impact can vary according to specification, thickness, processing, recycled content and source.

Where project requirements allow, clients can consider lower-carbon glass options or the reuse of suitable existing glass. Any reused material must be reviewed against the dimensions, condition, specification and performance requirements of the proposed application.

FSC® certified timber sourcing

Timber is used within selected Optima products, including Tech Panels. Our Radstock manufacturing facility holds FSC certification, allowing eligible products supplied directly from the facility to be provided with full Chain of Custody certification.

Plywood used within Tech Panels is procured to the CARB Phase 2 standard. The precise certification and documentation available should be confirmed against the product and project scope at the point of specification.

Working with approved suppliers

Responsible sourcing depends on more than the selection of an individual material. We review supplier information and supporting documentation as part of our procurement and pre-qualification processes.

Optima’s Sustainable Procurement Policy includes environmental expectations for relevant suppliers, including ISO 14001 certification where applicable. We also work with key suppliers to improve activity data for carbon reporting and to understand opportunities for reducing impacts across the value chain.

Evidence for informed specification

Environmental information is available through product-specific documentation, including Environmental Product Declarations, responsible-sourcing certificates and Sustainability Statements.

These documents help project teams review material impacts and support relevant submissions under assessment schemes such as BREEAM, LEED, Ska and WELL. The contribution available depends on the product specified, the evidence held and the requirements of the applicable scheme and project.