In a demanding economic and environmental context, BIA Group – the distributor of the Komatsu brand – offers an innovative and sustainable alternative to the systematic replacement of industrial, construction, and mining equipment: renovation and remanufacturing. These solutions enable operating companies to significantly reduce their carbon footprint and total cost of ownership (TCO) while ensuring optimal performance.
A proven alternative for a more responsible industry
In the face of the challenges posed by the circular economy and increasing demands for sustainability, BIA Group, an expert in construction, quarrying, and mining solutions, provides its clients with comprehensive overhaul services and rebuild of critical components, including the remanufacturing of certain elements by the manufacturer Komatsu, allowing for a substantial reduction in carbon emissions.
In collaboration with the consulting firm D-Carbonize, BIA conducted a comparative study of CO₂ emissions between the renovation of existing equipment and the acquisition of new machinery. These renovations are carried out in BIA’s certified workshops in Belgium (Fleurus) and in three countries in Africa (Zambia, Senegal, Burkina Faso). The results are striking:
- Overhauling a Komatsu HD605 haul truck weighing 60 tons can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 92%, saving 241 tons, equivalent to 80,000 liters of fuel.
- The rebuilt of critical components such as differentials and final drives leads to an average reduction of 64% in CO₂ emissions.
- Furthermore, the remanufacturing of certain components by Komatsu provides an even more sustainable alternative by extending the lifespan of parts while minimizing the use of new resources, resulting in a 47% reduction in CO₂ emissions.
These figures demonstrate that extending the lifespan of existing equipment is both an economical and sustainable solution, contributing to the reduction of industrial waste and the preservation of natural resources.
Concrete benefits for operators
By opting for renovation or remanufacturing, BIA's client companies benefit from multiple advantages:
- Cost reduction: Renovation costs between 40% and 60% less than the price of new equipment, allowing for significant investment optimization.
- Performance optimization: Renovated equipment ensures reliability and a lifespan comparable to new machinery.
- Financial flexibility: Through tailored financing solutions, BIA and its financial partners help clients preserve their cash flow while optimizing their fleet.
- Commitment to sustainability: By reducing their environmental footprint, companies comply with requirements and new regulations while enhancing their relationships with stakeholders.
- Positive societal impact: By promoting remanufacturing and renovation, BIA actively participates in training and creating skilled jobs, thus supporting the development of local communities.
A strong commitment to the industry of tomorrow
The effectiveness of this approach is already demonstrated in the field. Lieven Noël, Technical & Operations Manager North Heidelberg Materials Benelux, states: “Since 2023, we have remanufactured several haul trucks in collaboration with BIA. This program allows us to extend the lifespan of our equipment while reducing our investment costs and carbon footprint. By reutilizing key components, we decrease our consumption of raw materials and the emissions associated with transport, perfectly aligned with our sustainability policy.”
As a key player in the sector, BIA Group is committed to supporting its clients in their transition to a more responsible industry. With over 700 specialized technicians and engineers in Europe and Africa, the company also promotes local employment and the development of essential skills for the future.
“At BIA Group, we have made sustainability a central pillar of our strategy. Our renovation and remanufacturing solutions enable our clients to reduce their carbon impact while adopting a more responsible procurement and maintenance pathway. Simultaneously, we contribute to the development of local communities by training qualified technicians and creating jobs in the regions where we operate. By rethinking our industrial models, we are helping to build a more sustainable future for all,” says Romain Bia, CEO of BIA Group.
