The keyword shaping today’s ceramic trends

(April 2025) | In 2025, Ceramics of Italy launched a new communication campaign entitled “I choose responsibility. You should too”, highlighting the idea of responsibility as the simultaneous pursuit of high environmental standards, respect for industry employees and care for local communities.

While exploring the exhibitor booths and new products showcased at Coverings 2025, we asked ceramic sector companies to tell us about the steps they are taking to promote environmental and social responsibility within their production processes. The responses revealed a wide variety of strategies and projects for integrating environmental sustainability with respect for people, including fostering employee well-being, adopting technological innovations to reduce ecological impact and engaging with communities through social responsibility initiatives.

Several of the companies we spoke to are demonstrating their environmental commitment through tangible measures such as the use of natural raw materials, recycling and the adoption of low-impact technologies for improving energy efficiency (photovoltaic panels and cogeneration systems), as well as implementing circular economy principles to reduce waste. Some have achieved environmental certifications including B Corp, EPD and ISO 17889-1, while others have been focusing on strategies for reducing environmental impact such as the adoption of advanced technologies for water recycling, the use of renewable energy sources and optimised production processes. Many companies are also adopting eco-conscious design and manufacturing practices to create products with a reduced environmental footprint.

Employee well-being is another priority, with many companies organising corporate welfare schemes, smart working policies to improve work-life balance and continuous training programmes. Several companies are pursuing rigorous workplace health and safety policies backed by ISO safety management certifications. Others highlight the importance of Italian creativity and craftsmanship, focusing on the quality and authenticity of the production process and recognising the contributions of artisans and suppliers. Finally, a number of companies are supporting social responsibility initiatives such as education, health and community projects.

Artistica 3
As part of its commitment to the responsible use of resources, Artistica 3 is adopting eco-friendly practices, using recyclable materials and promoting solutions that reduce the environmental impact of the production process. The company also places significant value on human capital, fostering an inclusive, safe and respectful work environment.

The Travertini glazed porcelain tile collection (Artistica 3) is ideal for both indoor and outdoor flooring in spaces such as living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, terraces and high-traffic areas. These tiles are also available with a non-slip finish and offer excellent resistance to thermal shock and moisture.

Atlas Concorde
Atlas Concorde continues to stand out for its firm commitment to social responsibility and environmental sustainability. This vision is reflected in two key initiatives. The first involved joining Sedex and successfully completing the SMETA 4 Pillar audit, the second the launch of Atlas Concorde Pack, an innovative packaging system designed in accordance with the principles of the circular economy.

Log and Log Cansei (Atlas Concorde) are the latest offerings developed in partnership with Itlas, a leader in the production of wood flooring. These wood-effect ceramic surfaces were developed in close collaboration with natural wood experts to recreate the essence of authentic wood.

Caesar
Since its inception, Caesar has maintained a constant commitment to protecting the environment and improving quality of life. The company aims to use sustainable processes to manufacture high-quality products that are kind to nature and to people and invests continuously in reducing consumption, waste and emissions. It also prioritises worker safety and well-being and supports social and cultural initiatives that foster the growth and development of the local community.

The Join collection (Caesar) comes in a colour palette designed to bring creative visions to life, with 12 neutral tones ranging from warm to cool greys, complemented by 8 accent colours that combine contemporary appeal with stylistic versatility.

Dado Ceramica
Dado Ceramica combines high technical performance with a longstanding commitment to environmental sustainability. Every stage in the production process is optimised to reduce its environmental footprint, from the selection of locally-sourced raw materials to the use of advanced ceramic technologies, water recycling systems and renewable energy generated by the company’s new photovoltaic system. Attention to people is reflected in a safe, inclusive workplace, continuous training and a corporate culture based on responsibility and innovation.

The Geology collection (Dado Ceramica) comes in six colours and six structured Rigat-one decorations featuring a ribbed texture, along with a wallpaper-inspired pattern. The colours Argilla, Sabbia, Ghiaia, Terra, Cotto and Salvia evoke a profound connection with natural elements.

Eco Ceramica
Eco Ceramica’s responsible approach to the environment is reflected in its use of natural raw materials such as clay and recycled content in the production of its high-quality terracotta tiles. The company’s production model emphasises Italian artistic craftsmanship, favouring creativity over mere repetition.

Each tile in the Informale collection (Eco Ceramica) is handmade by skilled artisans using a distinctive scratched ceramic technique. This involves carefully engraving the surface with a variety of tools to create intricate designs and motifs. This meticulous process adds depth and texture to create a tactile, visually striking finish.

Emilgroup
Emilgroup adopts an Integrated Management System that guarantees the utmost dedication to quality, environment, energy management and worker health and safety, maintaining the highest standards in every stage of the product life cycle. For example, its Guarantee of Origin (GO) certifies that the electricity used comes from renewable sources, promotes transparency in the energy market, encourages clean energy development and helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Inspired by natural gemstones, the Tele di Marmo Lumia collection (Emilgroup) explores the interplay of light and material. With their unique backlit effect, these surfaces enhance the translucency and shimmering reflections typical of precious stones, creating dramatic and visually-striking interiors. Thanks to its cutting-edge technological research, Emilgroup has successfully captured the depth and complexity of gemstones and reproduced them faithfully on ceramic surfaces.

Fap Ceramiche
Well aware of the importance of the environment for the community, Fap Ceramiche has consistently combined its production and technological research with a rigorous environmental sustainability policy. The company holds an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) and has adopted the Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) methodology promoted by the EU to measure and evaluate the environmental impact of its products and services. FAP collections are LEED compliant and, depending on the chosen colour and their use, contribute to obtaining LEED credits.

The new Still collection from Fap Ceramiche consists of “perfectly imperfect” brick tiles that radiate creative energy and enhance interior spaces. A refined matt finish with strong tactile qualities brings dynamism and warmth to walls, while the palette of seven hues – Gesso, Cemento, Beige, Terra, Aloe, Denim and Lavagna – ensures customisation and design flexibility. Pictured is the Terra version in a 6×24 cm size.

Keope
Keope is firmly committed to environmental sustainability and to reducing the impact of its production process. All of its collections comply with LEED standards and contribute to LEED credits for buildings thanks to the ecological quality of the entire industrial production cycle. Ceramiche Keope’s responsible approach to protecting both the environment and workers is supported by numerous certifications. In particular, ISO 17889 – Sustainability for Ceramic Tiles certifies not only the environmental sustainability of products, production processes and sourcing, but also the company’s commitment to social responsibility, workplace safety and energy efficiency through every phase of manufacturing.

The Lavica porcelain stoneware collection (Keope) captures the authentic spirit of Sicilian lava stone. Each piece is a tribute to an ancient world, with surfaces that evoke the textures of volcanic rock and are a tangible expression of the earth’s extraordinary regenerative power. The collection includes the three austere shades Grey, Anthracite and Black, forming a colour palette that captures the intensity and subtle reflections of lava stone.

La Fenice
Ceramic is a recyclable and environmentally sustainable material made exclusively from natural raw materials found in the Earth’s crust, such as clay, sand, feldspar and kaolin. When constructing its factory on a greenfield site in Bondeno (MN), La Fenice wanted the entire production process to be guided by eco-compatibility principles. The Group has drawn up a Code of Ethics that clearly outlines the rights, duties and responsibilities of the organisation towards all stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, employees, associates, shareholders and institutions. This document underpins every interaction and collaboration, ensuring that the company’s operations always adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards.

The Majestic glazed porcelain stoneware collection (La Fenice) expresses the universal and timeless beauty of marble, while the versatile range of colours and textures has been carefully selected to enhance the style and atmospheres of contemporary spaces.

Mirage
Mirage’s ReSource project combines production efficiency and sustainability by reducing environmental impact and maximising the reuse of resources. All ReSource collections adhere to rigorous eco-design criteria, regenerating materials and minimising consumption. Mirage recycles over 60% of its production waste, transforming it into new porcelain stoneware surfaces that maintain high standards of quality and performance. At the same time, it places human-centred design at the heart of its approach, envisioning its products not merely as surfaces but as tools for creating harmonious spaces that enhance physical and emotional well-being.

The regeneration process adopted by Mirage involves combining 39.8% of raw materials in their natural state with 48.6% of processing waste and 11.6% of materials that have already completed the firing cycle, resulting in a total of 60.2% pre-consumer recycled content.

Nuovocorso
Nuovocorso is dedicated to protecting the environment and promoting well-being by prioritising the responsible use of resources and employing low-impact production methods. It minimises waste and avoids harmful chemicals, opting instead for natural, non-toxic glazes. At the same time, it fosters a safe, fair and motivating workplace, promoting a collaborative atmosphere that contributes positively to finished product quality.

Breccia Siciliana (Nuovocorso) stands out for its Art 5D Technology finish, which combines glossy and matt sections on the same slab. The matt areas can have either a satin or a textured finish for a pleasant and unusual tactile sensation. The collection is resistant to high temperatures, stains and wear, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including furniture design.

Ragno
Ragno reaffirms its enduring commitment to sustainability, a core value underpinning the company’s dedication to people, communities and the environment. In 2024, Ragno continued to prioritise training, employee well-being and environmental progress, achieving important milestones that testify to its ongoing efforts.

Travertino Wall (Ceramiche Ragno) reinterprets travertine stone in two different versions (Vein Cut and Cross Cut), available in white and beige and a 40×120 cm size. Thanks to 3D Ink technology, the surfaces display rich graphic and textural details that create glossy and matt contrasts and a sense of depth. The Malva decoration introduces a three-dimensional floral motif, while the Dorica and Pli structures inspired by classical architecture add refined and irregular reliefs.

Refin Ceramiche
Refin Ceramiche believes that sustainable development is truly meaningful only when it positively impacts all three spheres of business activity: economic, social and environmental. Alongside statutory certifications, the company participates in numerous voluntary schemes that attest to the low environmental impact of both its products and production processes.

Upside (Refin Ceramiche) is a contemporary reimagining of the iconic Beside mosaic by designer Massimiliano Adami, who drew inspiration from the decorative potential of the reverse side of ceramic tiles. Upside retains the stylistic identity of the original design while enhancing its unique characteristics. It offers a contemporary evolution of Adami’s mosaic, expanding its geometric pattern into potentially unlimited configurations and applying it to larger formats.

Supergres
Supergres adopts a sustainability-based approach in every step from raw materials to finished products. This includes reducing water usage, recycling waste, improving energy efficiency and promoting certified sustainability of products and processes. The company is also pursuing a wide-ranging project called “People First”.

Colovers+ (Supergres) combines colour with the aesthetics of trowelled resin for contemporary interior design applications. Its resin-effect shades can be used individually, combined tone-on-tone or contrasted to generate infinite creative possibilities. Available in numerous sizes from 120×278 cm down to 30×60 cm, the series guarantees exceptional versatility, meeting both commercial and residential design needs with complete creative freedom.

Terratinta Group
Terratinta Group has chosen to become a Benefit Corporation and obtain B Corp certification, integrating sustainability objectives directly into its business model. To reduce its environmental impact, it has installed photovoltaic panels and incorporates recycled materials into its products. It also promotes sustainability throughout the local area through membership of B Lab Modena. In addition, Terratinta Group prioritises employee well-being through a range of initiatives including remote working and health-focused programmes.

Sartoria (Terratinta) is part of the Savoir Faire collection, intentionally created as a response to mass industrialisation. It celebrates the distinctive aesthetic of handmade tiles, drawing inspiration from the expertise of traditional artisanal workshops. This tailor-made collection is ideal for those who value interior design, small-format tiles, colour and decoration.

Tuscania Ceramiche
Tuscania Ceramiche employs innovative technologies aimed at improving production efficiency, reducing energy consumption and supporting environmental sustainability. Water and production waste are fully recycled, energy is self-generated through photovoltaic systems, and the raw materials used are sustainably sourced. The company’s packaging is made from recycled paper and designed to minimise waste. With an annual production of around 7 million square metres, Tuscania delivers safe, eco-friendly and innovative products that are free from toxic emissions, fire-resistant and produced within an ethically sustainable workplace.

The Natura collection (Tuscania Ceramiche) conveys a sense of timeless, authentic beauty, perfectly suited to both modern and classic interiors. Its warm, inviting texture highlights the wood grain, creating refined, harmonious spaces. Available in five elegant colours, three versatile sizes and two thicknesses, Natura offers solutions for both indoor and outdoor use, catering to a wide range of aesthetic and functional needs.

Unicomstarker
Unicomstarker demonstrates its firm commitment to sustainability by implementing environmentally responsible production practices. The company has earned ISO 14001:2015 certification for its environmental management system. This commitment leads to continuous improvements in technologies, processes and materials, all aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting energy efficiency.

Crossland (UnicomStarker) is an innovative collection inspired by the natural elegance of stones from northern regions, each with its own distinctive character. Available in four colours (Dune, Rock, Pearl and Match) and a variety of sizes, including large formats and modular solutions, the collection also features decorative elements such as Mosaico, Hexagon and Linear. Thanks to meticulous research, Crossland blends warmth and vitality in a sophisticated combination of textures and tones, achieving a harmonious and elegant design.