In the agricultural fields of the Northeast Polder, a fine layer of clay remains after washing vegetables, known as sorting clay. Although this residual stream is high-quality soil, it is rarely reused on farmland due to the risk of bacterial contamination. Instead, it often ends up in low-value applications such as road backfill or private gardens.

Together with Studio Makkink & Bey, Atelier NL, and BioRomeo, we set out to change that. Our shared goal is to give this valuable material the purpose it deserves by developing a process that transforms sorting clay into high-quality ceramic and design products. This project connects geology, history, and culture, showing how local materials can tell the story of a place through tangible form.

Each partner contributes unique expertise. Studio Makkink & Bey leads as initiator and concept designer. Atelier NL researches the clay’s suitability for applications such as tableware, tiles, or pigments. We contribute our technical knowledge of waste-based brick and tile production, exploring new material combinations and techniques to reduce CO2 emissions. BioRomeo provides the raw material and supports the processing of the clay. The result is a scalable method that can be applied to diverse clay types, turning agricultural residue into durable, high-value products.

Year: 2024
Partners: Studio Makkink & Bey, Atelier NL, BioRomeo