When sustainable construction company earth4Earth first arrived at Sheffield Technology Parks (STP), they were finding their feet as a newly formed business based on research undertaken at the University of Sheffield and at Huaqiao University in China. With ambitions to decarbonise the global construction industries and highly specialised research at the core of their work, the team needed a base that could evolve alongside them.

For earth4Earth, STP was able to offer the space, community, connections and support, just at the right time. Nearly two years on, the team is settling into a new base in Sheffield, where they’ll be taking production of their pioneering carbon-capture bricks to the next level.

Finding the right environment to grow

From the outset, earth4Earth’s work required more than a standard office setup. Developing low‑carbon bricks meant laboratory space, flexibility, and an environment that could accommodate experimentation and testing. STP worked closely with the team to ensure their space and fit-out suited the unique nature of their research.

“They were really responsive in terms of asking us what we needed,” explains Anna Simmons, Support Manager at earth4Earth. “We had dedicated lab space alongside office space, and access to larger meeting rooms when we needed them. That flexibility made a big difference.”

During their time at STP, earth4Earth made major progress on their product development. Using the onsite lab facilities, the team refined their brick formulation, improving both compressive strength and frost resistance. That research ultimately helped them achieve the highest possible frost resistance rating and performance beyond that of traditional clay‑fired bricks - a significant milestone in making their product market‑ready.

“That was a key moment for us,” says Anna. “It meant the product was ready, and the research we did at STP directly informed production at our factory in China.”

Becoming part of the STP community

Beyond space and facilities, STP’s value for earth4Earth lay in the wider ecosystem it offered. As a first physical base for the company, STP provided introductions, events, and opportunities to connect with other founders, professionals, and partners.

“When you’re a small startup, you’re doing lots of things at once,” Anna says. “Being somewhere where those connections happen naturally is incredibly helpful.”

Through STP, earth4Earth connected with service providers, advisors and visiting professionals, helping them navigate challenges such as insurance and early‑stage decision‑making. The team also hosted their own event at STP, welcoming local architects, construction professionals and representatives from the council to learn more about their innovation.

STP also played a key role in connecting earth4Earth with The Sheffield College, leading to guest presentations and the ongoing use of earth4Earth bricks by students in workshops.

“Tom was always really supportive and made great suggestions,” says Anna. “Through STP, we’ve built relationships that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.”

Taking the next step: Phase Zero

Now, earth4Earth is entering an exciting new chapter. The company has moved into a larger facility - known internally as Phase Zero - where they are shifting focus to UK‑based production. This space enables the team to produce samples locally, begin manufacturing brick slips, and prepare for scaling up operations.

“We’re planning to begin UK production while keeping our factory in China to support distribution throughout Asia,” Anna explains. “Phase Zero gives us the space to start making products here, send samples to customers easily, and move towards being fully revenue‑generating.”

With awareness growing in the UK and certification processes underway, this move marks a big step in earth4Earth’s journey from a university research‑led business to scaling climate‑positive business.

At Sheffield Technology Parks, seeing companies outgrow their original space is something to be celebrated. earth4Earth’s progression shows what can happen when ambition, expertise and innovation are given the right support, at the right time.

“It’s been really great working with the team at earth4Earth,” says STP CEO, Tom Wolfenden. “Supporting early‑stage companies in a way that is tailored to what they need, who they need, and when they need it, enabling them to grow and take the next step - is exactly what STP is here for.”

We’re wishing earth4Earth all the best and look forward to watching their continued impact on more sustainable construction industries across the globe.

Could you be next?

The Cooper Buildings - where you’ll find Sheffield Technology Parks - has been a first home for thousands of companies over the years.

We've pivoted over 30% of our building to lab and workshop space, meeting growing demand from hard-science companies. So whether you're a lone scientist looking for a bench in our shared lab, or a growing team needing dedicated space for your kit, and the right environment for your research - we have something to offer.

It won't be your forever home, but it’s a great place to build your foundations. Get in touch: hello@shefftechparks.com | 0114 22 11 800.