According to a survey by the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) of its members“ use of pre- and post-consumer recycled materials in their insulation products during 2006/2007…
According to a survey by the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) of its members“ use of pre- and post-consumer recycled materials in their insulation products during 2006/2007, US manufacturers used almost 4.2 billion pounds (1.9 billion kilograms) of recycled materials in the production of residential, commercial, industrial, and air handling thermal and acoustic insulation. This represents a rise of almost 62% over 2005. Use of recycled glass rose by 107%. Since the industry“s recycling program began in 1992, NAIMA members“ plants have diverted almost 33 billion pounds (14 billion kilograms) of recycled materials from the waste stream. The survey showed NAIMA Canada members together utilized 593 million pounds (269 million kilograms) of recycled glass in the production of thermal and acoustic insulation. This represents an increase of 66% over 2005. “NAIMA members are committed to preserving the environment by using recycled materials to produce energy-saving insulation products that improve a building“s energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact,” said Ken Mentzer, president and CEO of NAIMA. “Fiberglass, rock wool and slag wool insulation are some of the best choices available for residential and commercial green building”. While recycled content is just one indicator of a product“s environmental impact, the recent survey results illustrate the significant impact that industry can affect through the conscientious use of materials. The survey includes data from both US and Canadian manufacturing facilities.