The first Cradle to Cradle Certified® freezer
Liebherr Appliances understanding of sustainability goes beyond product responsibility. We aim to be a part of the circular economy by embracing the Cradle to Cradle principles (C2C).Instead of the "take-make-waste" model, C2C promotes a circular approach for continuous reuse, recycling, or biodegradation, aiming for a positive environmental footprint.This breaks from traditional thinking, encouraging designing products and services from start to restart – from cradle to cradle.
Our first innovation that conforms to the Cradle to Cradle philosophy is the FNXa 522i freezer with BluRoX technology. Developing this freezer meant we had to completely rethink freezing technology – remaking the way we make things. This process took over 10 years and marks an important milestone on our journey. One, which we believe will lead the way into a future where kitchens are as sustainable as they are essential. A future that is not linear – but circular.
10 years in the making – Meet some of the people behind the revolutionary freezer in our FNXa 522i film.
“Cradle to Cradle sees itself as being on a journey – our aim is to be beneficial to our planet.”
Dr. Annette Winterl | EPEA Lead Consultant
The three principles of Cradle to Cradle
The Cradle to Cradle design philosophy is based on three core principles that redefine sustainability and help guide us in developing closed-loop, regenerative systems and products.
Thinking circular
Cradle to Cradle operates on two complementary cycles: the biological cycle, which involves biodegradable materials returning to nature, and the technical cycle, which focuses on products designed for reuse, repair, or recycling.
In the technical cycle, products that cannot naturally return to the earth are managed to ensure they don't harm the environment. These items are designed to be reused, repaired, or recycled.
In the biological cycle, products are crafted from biodegradable materials free of harmful additives. These products naturally decompose and return to the biosphere, supporting the regeneration of natural resources.
The Cradle to Cradle Certified® Certification
Cradle to Cradle Certified® is a prestigious certification standard for products designed for the circular economy. It evaluates products in five areas: material health, material reutilisation, renewable energy, water stewardship, and social fairness. Products are rated for their commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement.
“It’s a thousand small steps that bring big change.”
Dr. Florian Claudel
Liebherr | Material Specialist
Circular by design: Our BluRoX technology
The journey to our latest innovation was made of countless small steps. It has led us to completely rethink the cooling and freezing technology. The result is BluRoX, our revolutionary vacuum perlite insulation, which follows the principles of a circular economy. Not only is the technology extremely energy efficient but has allowed us to build a freezer where all essential components can be reused.
BluRoX – our vacuum perlite technology innovation
BluRoX is significantly more efficient than traditional foam insulation. Instead of the conventional polyurethane foam (PU), BluRoX uses a much more effective form of cold insulation: a vacuum. Finely ground lava rock, so called perlite, stabilises the vacuumed components. This approach ensures the best possible energy efficiency due to the vacuum's insulating properties and perlite's low thermal conductivity.
At the end of the lifespan of a BluRoX freezer, the perlite can be removed and easily reused. Additionally, the insulation is not bonded to surrounding components, meaning the outer shell and inner container can also be easily processed and reused.
The FNXa 522i – The first Cradle to Cradle Certified® freezer
Liebherr has pioneered refrigeration innovation since 1954. The latest testament is our FNXa 522i freezer with patented BluRoX technology, born from volcanic rock and a bold idea: to rethink freezing technology from the ground up.
Efficiency, recyclability, and repairability are designed into the product from the outset, aligning with the principles of a circular economy. This is also evident in the cooling module in the base, which can be easily removed, allowing for quick maintenance. Additionally, each essential component can be separated and reused at the end of its lifecycle, thus minimising environmental impact.
Awarded with Crade to Cradle Certified® Bronze
The Liebherr FNXa 522i freezer has proudly earned the Cradle to Cradle Certified® certification in Bronze, a testament to our commitment to sustainability and innovative product design.
“We had to completely rethink the freezer.”
Jochen Hiemeyer
Liebherr | Teamleader Vacuum Technology
Highest energy efficiency
Easier repairability
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More volume
Corporate Responsibility
At Liebherr, we understand that our responsibilities extend beyond our business operations. As a globally operating, family-run company, we recognise our duty towards society and the environment. Our commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking practices is not just about short-term goals; it's about ensuring the well-being of future generations. This ethos is deeply embedded in our corporate culture and guides our actions and strategies.