Last September, not only did we welcome the arrival of a new constructive challenger but we also witnessed the creation of an entirely new position within our organogram. This blog presents Yves Palmers, edibo’s very first sustainability coordinator. He shares how his two biggest passions kept growing closer together: his love for our planet on the one hand and his thorough interest in technology on the other.

From disappointment to taking control into his own hands

About ten years ago, Yves graduated with an Industrial Engineer degree, specialising in electrical engineering. Together with his fondness for technology, his fascination for the sustainable world also grew stronger.

“You could say I was born with a distinct awareness for sustainability (laughs). In the broad sense of the word, that is. At home, we were taught to take care of others. Then, during my time with the ‘scouts’, I learned everything I needed to know about being sociable and working together.”

“Through the years, my concerns with regard to our planet’s future kept growing. I hoped to be able to delve into that more profoundly during my studies. Unfortunately, the concept of sustainability was hardly considered in my then field of study.  That’s why I decided to shift up a gear. For one, I invested in an EPB study [a study concerning the energy performance of buildings] and I discovered my fondness for guiding and consulting people.”

“A solid foundation to build on”

As sustainability coordinator, Yves now manages to fully combine his technical skills as well as his communications skills to further develop the sustainability story for edibo.

“It is my objective to structurally cement sustainability within the edibo buildings, processes and projects but also to help carry out our story and our sustainability goals as extensively as possible; both towards customers and co-workers. The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) Europe has recently mandated also plays a part in this objective but there’s plenty of good to build on already. For example, our efforts towards the BREEAM accreditation and many initiatives for the VOKA Charter for Sustainable Entrepreneurship over the last few years.”

“In order to get as many co-workers on board as possible, I need to get to know everybody better first. That will be my main focus for the next couple of months, because to create impact, we need to get people on board. You can’t simply enforce or impose big changes; we want sustainable trade to grow naturally so that it becomes common practice and commonplace for everyone.”

"At edibo, we can already build on a solid foundation. Think, for example, of our BREEAM efforts (such as in the Logistics Capital Partners project in Bilzen, see photo) and the many initiatives undertaken for the VOKA sustainability charter in recent years."

Bread and (pool) games

And finally, does Yves like to challenge himself outside working hours as well? “Let’s just say that in my spare time I work a little less around sustainability and a little more around creativity (laughs), while I try not to eat meat and I love making my own bread.”

“Further, I am really into music, mostly the classical pieces. I have been taking violin lessons for about eight years now at the music academy. Maybe I’ll join a society one day. If there’s any time to spare, I like to dive into the pool and swim a few laps, or I like to read. As you can see, plenty to do (laughs).”

Ready for a sustainable job at a sustainable construction player?

We at edibo have been building the most challenging industrial constructions for more than 40 years, nationally as well as internationally, with maximum attention for the wellbeing of mankind, nature and our planet. Does this sound like the type of employer you are looking for to give your career a definite boost? Then be sure to take a look at our vacancies or feel free to apply on your own initiative.