Great capacity for technological innovation : France has devoted considerable sums to research in clay masonry products over the past two decades. Cutting edge industrial processes are the main beneficiaries (800 million francs - about USD 123 million - was invested in 1998 to overhaul production tools and develop new product lines and product colours).     Fabrication process : A worldwide reputation: Most of the major innovations in the clay tile and brick industry's manufacturing processes that are now used throughout the world were developed in France. French industrial enterprises have elaborated a large number of advanced technologies with public and private partners, bringing about great changes in production over the past 25 years. These innovations mainly cover drying, firing and handling. One example is hydraulically sealed kilns which allow uniform firing of clay products. Another is the mechanization of handling at every stage of production and the increasing use of robots. All heat treatment is automated by programmable devices. An environmentally sound industry : A natural material by definition, traditional heavy clay is 100% recyclable. In the interest of conservation, France's clay tile and brick industry is dedicated to developing techniques which protect the environment. Clay is secured from quarries which operate according to very strict regulations. After the clay is extracted, the sites are rehabilitated in order to preserve local ecosystems. The clay masonry industry produces few sensitive waste materials. Factories conform to air and water regulations and employ the latest technologies to limit waste output to the environment. Waste product is internally recycled or "reprocessed" by reinjection into the production cycle.