From production to packaging: Nero Tapware’s holistic sustainability commitment

In an era where environmental responsibility is paramount, architects and designers across Australia are increasingly gravitating towards collaborations with partners, manufacturers and suppliers that not only craft exceptional products but also demonstrate an intrinsic and profound dedication to sustainability. Nero Tapware, a family-owned company embedding environmental considerations into the very fabric of its operations, is emerging as a leader in this space. So here, we explore Nero’s comprehensive approach to sustainability through the lens of some of their most poignant initiatives. These endeavours are not only refining Nero’s increasingly environmentally sophisticated product line but are also signalling a more ecologically responsible trajectory for tapware – and the broader Australian built environment.

Nero’s philosophy of sustainability finds its grounding in the distinctive tapestry of Australia’s natural environment. Our nation’s propensity for droughts has left all of us with an intrinsic understanding of the value of water, and the importance of resource conservation – and it’s this fundamental understanding that Nero meticulously integrates into the very core of its company and the composition of its product range. Nero’s guiding principle is clear: to design and craft tapware that fosters a healthier climate, empowers architects and designers, and – naturally – enhances the lives of end users.

This compelling ethos is guided by a few key initiatives that assure innovation across the entire lifecycle of their products – from mindful material sourcing to the intricacies of manufacturing and the considered design of packaging.

Putting health first with low-lead materials

Recognising the essential importance of water purity and public health, Nero Tapware proactively transitioned its entire portfolio of drinking water products to low-lead materials by April 2023, significantly ahead of the 2026 NCC mandate. Achieving this meant a comprehensive overhaul of their material sourcing processes, rigorous testing protocols and stringent certifications to ensure both health safety and regulatory compliance – demonstrating a steadfast commitment to exceeding minimum standards and prioritising the well-being of consumers.

Leveraging advanced material technology

Expanding this focus on materiality, Nero Tapware’s Zen collection showcases their latest raw material technology through the exclusive use of 316L stainless steel, a low-carbon variant chosen for its enhanced properties. This high-performance material offers exceptional durability and superior corrosion resistance – even better than standard 316 stainless steel – making it ideal for demanding environments. Its low carbon content also significantly improves weldability, adding to its long-term value and reparability. Naturally lead-free and 100% recyclable, 316L stainless steel significantly extends the product’s lifespan, reducing the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and replacement – and further underlining Nero’s holistic approach to material health and resource conservation.

Innovating through PVD finishing

Nero has also shifted from traditional plating methods to Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) finishing, a technologically advanced approach that has been proven to be more environmentally sound than older or more conventional methods. This means Nero’s finishes are entirely VOC-free (Volatile Organic Compounds), resulting in fewer harmful emissions, and increasing energy efficiency through the manufacturing process. Plus, PVD finishing has the added benefit of exceptional durability, with a lifespan of up to 25 years.

This combination results in highly durable products that retain their design appeal – and that are fully recyclable at their end-of-life. And because Nero is the only manufacturer in the Australian market that integrates PVD plating as part of their own manufacturing process and has stringent quality-control checks in place, the products are set to offer exceptional quality of finish and more precise colour matching. In addition, perhaps most importantly, because in-house PVD plating reduces Nero’s requirements for additional transport and adheres to the brand’s sophisticated manufacturing ethos, the products also boast significantly reduced carbon footprint.

Closing the loop in manufacturing

Speaking of Nero’s advanced production process, the company has taken significant strides towards minimising its environmental footprint through closed-loop manufacturing practices. Firstly, the company can now boast the full recycling and internal repurposing of wastewater generated during production, significantly conserving this precious resource. Additionally, brass recycling rates within its manufacturing processes have been boosted, reducing the need for raw material extraction and the associated energy consumption and emissions. Finally, the company has transitioned to the use of solar panels across its facilities, further decreasing its reliance on fossil fuels, lowering their carbon footprint and conserving vital natural resources.

Championing 100% recyclable packaging

Not content with taking a half-hearted approach to sustainability, Nero’s commitment extends all the way to its packaging. As of 2024, all Nero packaging is 100% recyclable, minimising landfill waste and supporting the principles of a circular economy. The company also demonstrates its ingenuity through the innovative reuse of excess materials, such as turning offcut cartons into protective cushioning for their products. This mindful approach to material utilisation even extends to their exhibition stands, which also integrate eco-conscious materials – proving the company’s active commitment to reducing waste output and minimising plastic usage.

The relentless drive towards progress

Naturally, the journey towards these sustainable practices has not been without its challenges. There were technological hurdles in shifting to low-lead and PVD processes, requiring significant upgrades in material handling and equipment. Financial investment in research and development and sustainable infrastructure was necessary. And, aligning long-standing manufacturing processes with new sustainable standards required a substantial cultural shift within the organisation. However, these challenges have yielded invaluable insights.

“We’ve learnt that the early adoption of sustainable practices – as exemplified by the low-lead transition – offers both a competitive edge and ensures regulatory foresight,” explains Clint Field, Nero Tapware’s National Sales & Marketing Manager Australia. “Thanks to our shift to PVD, which proved to be both more environmentally friendly and more durable, we also understood that sustainability and quality are not mutually exclusive. And, crucially, we now know that team’s involvement is absolutely essential – training and clear, inclusive communication were fundamental to the roll-out of the new practices.

Nero’s call to action for the Australian community

“True sustainability is built into every stage – not just the product, but the practices behind it,” says Clint. “We encourage all manufacturers to evaluate not just what they make, but how they make it.”

It’s a simple rallying cry, but while many companies have the best intentions, turning them into action can be a far trickier process. And for architects and specifiers, this means the landscape can sometimes be difficult to navigate. Luckily, Nero’s here to help.

“First of all, specify beyond performance by considering lifecycle, material health, and recyclability,” says Clint. “Secondly, ask questions of your suppliers to promote transparency and better outcomes. Lastly, consider packaging and post-use, recognising that sustainability extends beyond installation.”

Nero Tapware’s call to action is clear: choose tapware and fixtures that align with your project’s environmental, health, and aesthetic values. “By making informed decisions, architects and designers can contribute to a more sustainable built environment,” Clint sums up. “One product at a time.”