ECT is developing its international business under the LANDIFY brand. ECT is the French market leader, with a strong presence in the Greater Paris and Hauts-de-France regions, and has opened a subsidiary in Germany with major ambitions to replicate its model for transforming derelict land through the circular economy of excavated soil from construction sites.
We have three questions for Guillaume Pasquier and Jan Raddatz, directors of Landify Deutschland.
Jan, why did you join Landify Germany ?
Because the work is varied and really interesting! ECT’s management teams convinced me of the value of setting up an ECT subsidiary in Germany, in Berlin. There are large volumes of soil excavated by the German construction industry, and also many opportunities to restore neglected plots. My previous experience in project development (in renewable energies) puts me at an advantage when it comes to successfully applying the circular economy model for excavated soil in Germany. Having working at Landify for six months, I’m pleased with my choice. I enjoy my job and Landify is developing in close collaboration with the ECT teams in France. I feel very supported in this international development.
How are German local authorities and public authorities reacting to Landify’s plans to transform derelict sites ?
Landify is generating a great deal of discussion about its undeveloped landscaping model. We need to establish a relationship of trust. The issue of land and soil pollution is hotly discussed in Germany. And for the vast majority of our partners, our approach is new. It’s important to explain how we work and how land traceability is implemented. In June, we’re planning a trip with German decision-makers to the Paris region to visit ECT sites, the aim being to show our expertise in land management and the quality of the renaturation and development work carried out.
What are Landify Deutschland’s projects ?
We’re working on a number of major projects to reclaim former landfill sites, as well as building golf courses. A project in Potsdam, in the state of Brandenburg, near Berlin, is well under way. We have the town council’s backing. A study of the flora and fauna is currently being carried out to determine the precise scope of the project. Other sites suitable for Landify operations have been identified and discussions are under way with landowners and elected representatives to sketch out possible projects.
