New production process cuts water and energy use at Winnipeg gypsum plant, Saint-Gobain reports

Saint-Gobain Canada has announced that its CertainTeed Gypsum facility in Winnipeg has implemented a new production process that reduced water consumption, energy use and carbon emissions over the past year. According to a company statement, the sustainability initiative focused on optimizing the water-to-stucco ratio used in gypsum wallboard production, particularly for the 5/8 Type X board product line. The process changes led to a 3 per cent reduction in water usage, equivalent to over 240,000 gallons annually. The company also reported replacing magnetic flow meters with Coriolis flow meters to improve water measurement accuracy. This upgrade contributed to reduced variability in water discharge and less waste. Energy consumption at the facility decreased by nearly 25 million kilowatt-hours per year, according to Saint-Gobain Canada. The company estimates this reduction could save over $280,000 annually in energy costs. Carbon emissions (scopes 1 and 2) were reportedly reduced by 5.6 metric tons per year. Saint-Gobain Canada said the new process also resulted in a 5 per cent increase in line speed and overall productivity. The Winnipeg initiative is being used as a model for similar water reduction efforts at other CertainTeed facilities in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal, the company said. Saint-Gobain Canada also noted that its Montreal CertainTeed Gypsum facility in Sainte-Catherine, QC, is undergoing electrification upgrades. Once complete, the site is expected to become North America’s first and the world’s largest zero-carbon (scopes 1 and 2) wallboard plant. “At Saint–Gobain Canada, our team is striving every day to manufacture and deliver the highest quality of product to the construction industry while actively reflecting on the impact of our actions,” shares Jean-Claude Lasserre, CEO, Canada, Saint–Gobain. “With this transformative project, our whole CertainTeed Gypsum Winnipeg team came together to solve a challenge that will have a significant sustainable impact on our work, the environment and our customers.” The Winnipeg project was recognized by Saint-Gobain North America through its 2025 Sustainable Development Award program, which highlights initiatives aimed at reducing waste, water usage, energy consumption, and carbon emissions.