From pioneer to full circularity
Discover how we’ve gradually evolved into a truly circular system – from our unique recycling process to Novitumen®.
Find out how we recycle
1932
Founders Francis Blake and Agnan de Goussencourt establish the family company Imperbel in Lot, Belgium. The company produces waterproofing pastes for roofs.
1978
The construction of the Derbigum factory, in Perwez, marks an important step in the industrialisation of roofing. The company focuses on improving the production of roofing membranes.
1990
Derbigum initiates the first industrial process to transform residual material from production into new membranes. This is a blueprint for a circular business model in the construction industry.
2009
Derbigum launches the Derbigum NT range, featuring a capsheet and underlayer that contain recycled bitumen. This marks a step towards a more sustainable product range.
2010
Reviewing its recycling policy, Derbigum sets up a unique returns system for cut-offs and roof waste, which are collected via distributors or directly from roofers.
2013
A report* by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) confirms Derbigum NT’s and Derbicoat NT’s minimum level of recycled content. This makes them the first products on the market to feature an official report of their recycled bitumen content (*report is available upon request)
2019
Derbigum invests in a new assembly line to improve efficiency. The company also invests in circularity by creating a third recycling unit, taking its capacity up to 5,000 metric tonnes a year.
2020
Derbigum launches the “No Roof To Waste” campaign, stepping up its sustainability ambitions and promoting the transition to a circular economy.
2022
Derbigum NT is awarded Cradle to Cradle Bronze certification. This confirms Derbigum’s commitment to innovative and eco-friendly processes, energy saving and corporate social responsibility. The company is one of the first in the roofing industry to be awarded this certification for bituminous products.
2025
Derbigum launches its groundbreaking Novitumen® technology – the industry’s first bituminous material containing zero virgin bitumen.
The future
Derbigum will invest five million euros to expand production capacity at its Perwez site and scale up Novitumen® production. The site will be equipped with new recycling machines and feature new production halls.