Source: Belgian Cycling Factory

The LEVA-EU member has strengthened its sustainability strategy through a wide range of initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact, improving working conditions, and promoting responsible manufacturing.

While cycling itself is already recognised as one of the most sustainable modes of transport, the Belgian bike brand emphasises that its responsibility extends far beyond the product by continuing to invest in renewable energy, cleaner production technologies, waste reduction, and sustainable mobility for employees.

Renewable energy investment and sustainable transportation

The company’s most visible sustainability investments can be found at its headquarters in Beringen, where 1,584 solar panels have been installed on the roofs of its production facilities. The installation delivers a total AC capacity of 376,200 watts (approximately 376 kW), generating enough renewable electricity annually to supply between 110 and 130 average European households.

Belgian Cycling Factory has stated the solar installation prevents an estimated 180 to 200 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year compared with conventional grid electricity. By producing a significant share of its own renewable energy, the company reduces reliance on fossil fuels and structurally lowers its operational carbon footprint.

The company’s sustainability programme also includes an employee cycling allowance scheme and is gradually electrifying its vehicle fleet, supported by on-site charging infrastructure.

Water-based paint technology in production

Another major sustainability initiative is the conversion of the company’s in-house paint shop to water-based paint systems. These coatings contain approximately 90% fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than traditional solvent-based paints, significantly improving indoor air quality while reducing environmental impact.

Plant Manager Jan Van Daal explains:

“Water-based paint allows us to apply a thinner yet higher-quality coating layer, which reduces overall material consumption. While the unit cost is higher, we need less product per frame. In addition, we no longer require thinners, as the paint can be diluted with water. This results in a substantially lower environmental footprint.”

The company says this investment enables continuous improvement in both workplace safety and environmental performance, without compromising product quality.

Reusing protective frame packaging

Sustainability efforts also extend to daily operational practices. In the assembly department, protective packaging materials used during production are actively reused. The protective bags are repurposed as bike protection sleeves and handlebar covers, helping to reduce waste and maximise material usage.

The programme enables the reuse of approximately three tonnes of protective plastic material each year.

Product longevity and responsible manufacturing

Belgian Cycling Factory also highlights product longevity as a central pillar of its sustainability strategy. The company offers a lifetime warranty on frames, encouraging long-term use, repair, and responsible ownership.

Recognising that carbon fibre production involves complex global supply chains and transport-related emissions, the company views extended product lifespan as one of the most effective methods of reducing the overall environmental footprint of a bicycle.

A long-term commitment

Belgian Cycling Factory describes sustainability as a continuous daily process as it remains committed to advancing environmental performance while continuing to deliver high-quality, innovative products to cyclists worldwide.