Earth: Our own extraction
We extract part of the red clay used in our production ourselves, maintaining a direct connection with the material at the origin of our pieces.
Environmental sustainability
Creating with respect for the earth
At Maria Portugal Terracota, creating responsibly is part of the way we work. We choose natural raw materials, value local resources and continuously look for ways to reduce the impact of production at every stage. From the origin of the material to the final packaging, we approach the process more consciously, creating better, with less waste and greater respect for the earth.
Everything begins with clay
Extracted, prepared, shaped and transformed, clay moves through every stage of our process until it becomes a finished piece. Along the way, we aim to make better use of the material, reuse excess clay and work more consciously. It is a cycle that begins with the earth and continues in every piece we create.
Water: Clean, treat, reuse
Water used during production is treated in our own facilities and, whenever possible, returned to the production process.
Heat: Making energy go further
Part of the heat generated by our kilns is recovered and reused in other stages of production, helping us use energy more efficiently.
Design: Thinking before making
Responsibility also begins with design. Each piece is considered in terms of function, durability, ergonomics and production efficiency. We use glazes and colours without heavy metals, bringing together aesthetics, performance and safety.
Clay, again: Reusing the material
Clay left over from production is recovered whenever it remains suitable for reuse, returning to the process and becoming part of new pieces.
Packaging: Less waste
Our packaging is made mainly from recycled cardboard, and we aim to keep plastic use to a minimum. Whenever possible, materials such as expanded polystyrene and bubble wrap are replaced with cardboard-based alternatives, including honeycomb board.
And the cycle begins again.