TNO opens pilot factory for biobased construction materials
(Photo: TNO)
14 September 2026 – Dutch research organisation TNO has opened BioBuilt, a pilot production facility in Zoetermeer. The facility enables companies to develop and test construction materials made from plant-based and recycled resources. It was officially opened by Housing and Spatial Planning Minister Elanor Boekholt-O’Sullivan.
The construction industry consumes large quantities of raw materials and generates substantial greenhouse gas emissions. Materials made from waste wood and plant fibres, for example, could help reduce its environmental impact.
One major obstacle is that promising materials developed in laboratories are often not yet suitable for industrial production. BioBuilt aims to bridge this gap by providing facilities where companies can experiment with manufacturing processes and evaluate material performance.
The pilot factory has received support from the Dutch National Growth Fund programme for a future-proof living environment. Through this initiative, TNO aims to help the construction industry reduce its dependence on virgin resources while supporting the large-scale production of materials needed for new housing.
