According to the survey, NAIMA Canada members together used 169 million kilograms (373 million pounds) of recycled glass in the production of residential, commercial, industrial, and air handling thermal and acoustical insulation.
Canadian and U.S. facilities used more than 315 million kilograms (695 million pounds) of recycled blast furnace slag in the production of thermal and acoustical insulation. Since the industry’s recycling program began in 1992, NAIMA members’ plants have diverted more than 22 billion kilograms (49.2 billion pounds) of recycled materials from the waste stream.
“Sustainable business practices are very important to our members,” said Jay Nordenstrom, Executive Director of NAIMA Canada. “In addition to our insulation reducing energy consumption in buildings, we are committed to using recycled products in the manufacturing process, making fibre glass and mineral wool insulation attractive options for those concerned about their home or building’s environmental impact.”
While recycled content is just one indicator of a product’s environmental impact, the survey results illustrate the significant impact that an industry can have through the conscientious use of materials.