We don't think about it often, but the glass that we find everywhere in our homes or cars has to be produced somewhere. We found
this place.
While production has varied since the factory was founded in the 19th century, its latest specialty has been photovoltaic panels.
Unfortunately, as often, Belgian (and European) industry is being destroyed by China. We put people out of work here and we buy their products there.
The visit could have been much longer as the site is huge, but it was interrupted by the appearance of a guard. Indeed, the place is still under surveillance.
Pictures
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
A succession of grandiose but empty halls.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
A small part of the factory.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Raw glass was made here.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
The back of a partially destroyed crucible.
Usine Vert de Verre
The machine must have been huge.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
The top of the crucibles.
Usine Vert de Verre
The other end of the crucibles, intact this time.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
A gigantic block of glass, frozen for eternity.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
We go up to the high structures.
Usine Vert de Verre
There is a succession of very imposing machines there.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
The tall chimney continues to be a landmark in the region.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Some large tools are still present.
Usine Vert de Verre
Ancestral know-how sacrificed on the altar of global capitalism.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
To believe that we will soon be producing nothing in Belgium. We will only be Chinese customers.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
The old factory patiently awaits its death.
Usine Vert de Verre
Adjoining the factory, an ancient power station.
Usine Vert de Verre
This supplied the entire plant and enabled it to be self-sufficient in electricity.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Although dismantled, it still has some beautiful marble electrical panels.
Usine Vert de Verre
The access corridor to the generator room presents a surprising refinement for a power station.
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
Usine Vert de Verre
It is time to leave this magnificent and great forgotten factory.
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