BTN News: In a significant leap toward sustainable construction, a Colombian startup has introduced a groundbreaking technology that could revolutionize how we protect surfaces during construction projects. Glasst, an innovative company led by CEO Juan Camilo Botero, has developed a biodegradable coating called Glasstommer, designed to replace the single-use plastics traditionally used for protecting glass and other surfaces on construction sites. This eco-friendly solution offers a promising alternative to the plastic films, often recognized by their distinct blue color, that have long been a staple in the construction industry but pose severe environmental challenges due to their slow decomposition rate.
The core of Glasstommer’s innovation lies in its composition, which is made entirely from natural and renewable materials. Unlike conventional plastics that can take anywhere from 100 to 1,000 years to break down, Glasstommer degrades within a much shorter time frame of one to three years, depending on environmental conditions. This rapid biodegradation is a monumental advancement in reducing the long-term environmental impact of construction waste.
Juan Camilo Botero emphasizes the broader benefits of Glasstommer, noting that the use of this biodegradable coating not only reduces the environmental footprint of construction projects but also offers practical advantages. By cutting down cleaning times by 30% to 50%, the technology streamlines the post-construction process, translating into significant cost savings. Furthermore, Glasstommer eliminates the need for complex waste management procedures that are typically required for handling and disposing of conventional plastic films. Instead, once the coating has served its purpose, it can be recycled into rubber products such as tire stops or flooring materials, further extending its lifecycle and utility.
The global potential of this technology has not gone unnoticed. Glasst has secured patents for Glasstommer in several key markets, including Colombia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong, signaling the company’s readiness to expand its innovative solution beyond its home country. The development of Glasstommer was no small feat, with the company investing 2 billion Colombian pesos in its research and development. This investment is already showing returns, with Glasstommer being implemented in 97 construction sites and four major projects across Colombia.
As the construction industry increasingly seeks out sustainable practices, Glasstommer stands out as a powerful tool for reducing environmental harm while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This biodegradable coating not only addresses the pressing issue of plastic waste but also offers a practical solution that meets the demands of modern construction projects. With Glasstommer, Glasst is not just contributing to the future of sustainable construction but is actively shaping it, proving that eco-friendly innovations can also be economically viable and widely applicable.
