Green Approach

Sustainable porcelain pavers for outdoor performance

Kronos USA combines high-performance porcelain surfaces with a responsible approach to materials, production and long-term use. Our Green Approach focuses on durable products, recycled content, responsible resource management and outdoor solutions designed to support more conscious residential, hospitality and commercial projects.

SUSTAINABILITY STARTS WITH DURABILITY

A sustainable surface is not only defined by how it is made, but also by how long it performs. Kronos USA porcelain pavers are designed for outdoor spaces where durability, low maintenance and long-term aesthetic stability are essential. A surface that resists wear, stains, frost, heat and weather exposure can help reduce replacement, maintenance and material waste over time.

GREEN APPROACH

CO2 REDUCTION

In the last 10 years, Kronos has reduced its CO2 emissions by no less than 17%, with further investments planned to reuse heat generated during production and generate energy through cogeneration.

GREEN ENERGY

Kronos uses green energy. Electricity used at Kronos plants comes from cogeneration and hydroelectric power stations.

H2O MANAGEMENT AND PURIFICATION

All wastewater is reused throughout the manufacturing process, supporting a more responsible use of water resources.

LOCAL RAW MATERIALS

Kronos USA sources most of its natural raw materials within the United States, helping reduce transport distances and support a more local supply chain.

RECYCLED/RECYCLABLE PACKING MATERIAL

All paper packaging materials are made from recycled paper and are fully recyclable. Kronos also uses heat-treatment-certified pallets, disinfected by heat rather than poisonous gas.

RECYCLING PROCESS: ZERO WASTE

Kronos tiles are produced through a specific process that allows the addition of recycled content to the body layer of the tiles. Porcelain stoneware is made from natural raw materials such as feldspars, clays, kaolin clays and sands, transformed into a compact, stable and durable surface. The majority of raw materials are regionally sourced from nearby areas, including Tennessee, Kentucky and Mississippi.

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This makes it possible for Kronos USA to use recycled inputs and production residues to create the body layer while maintaining a high-quality tile. Kronos USA tiles incorporate an average of 30% recycled material, calculated on the total weight of the materials used, ecluding packaging. The pre-consumer recycling system is 100%. Post-consumer recycling is currently under study, and some preliminary trials are expected to begin shortly.

LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), also known as an eco-balance or cradle-to-grave analysis, evaluates the environmental impact of a product throughout its life cycle.

Kronos tiles and slabs have a very long life cycle. From a technical point of view, porcelain surfaces can be used for many years without losing their appearance or technical performance.

HEAT ISLAND REDUCTION AND OUTDOOR COMFORT

Outdoor surfaces play an important role in the way built environments absorb and release heat. In urban areas, rooftops, pool decks, patios, walkways and commercial outdoor spaces can contribute to the heat island effect when surfaces absorb and retain solar energy. Choosing materials with favorable solar reflectance and thermal behavior can help improve outdoor comfort and support more conscious project decisions.

For designers and specifiers, the Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) is a useful indicator to evaluate how a surface behaves under solar exposure. Higher SRI values are generally associated with surfaces that tend to remain cooler compared to materials that absorb and retain more heat.

DRY INSTALLATION AND REDUCED SETTING MATERIALS

Kronos USA has developed specific systems to install Porcelain Pavers without cement, glue, mortar or other setting materials, both on floors and walls.

Dry installation can reduce the need for adhesives, grout and additional setting materials, helping simplify installation, reduce dust and pollutants on site, and make project areas available sooner compared to traditional installation methods that require curing and drying time.

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FAQ ABOUT OUR GREEN APPROACH

Are porcelain pavers a sustainable outdoor surface?

Yes. Porcelain pavers can support sustainable outdoor design when durability, low maintenance, recycled content, responsible manufacturing and long life cycle are considered together.

Do Kronos USA products contain recycled material?

Kronos USA products incorporate recycled material into selected product ranges. Recycled content may vary depending on collection and size.

How can porcelain pavers help reduce maintenance?

Porcelain pavers are low porosity, easy to clean and resistant to stains, frost, weather exposure and outdoor wear, helping reduce the need for intensive maintenance over time.

What is SRI and why does it matter for outdoor surfaces?

SRI, or Solar Reflectance Index, helps evaluate how a surface behaves under solar exposure. Higher SRI values are generally associated with surfaces that remain cooler and can help reduce heat island effects.

Where can I find LEED information for Kronos USA products?

LEED-related information is available on the dedicated Kronos USA LEED page, including recycled content, regional materials, EPD, HPD, low-emitting materials and SRI data.