Electricity hikes, climate change and polluted oceans are the topics of many conversations which South Africans are having more often now than ever before, with the conclusion repeatedly being the need to live more environmentally responsible lives. However, many specifiers are unaware of the significant impact their choice of insulation can make – not only on the thermal and acoustic comfort of the homeowner but also on the environment. Here are a few of the environmental advantages of Thermguard insulation.
Recycled Content
Thermguard Insulation is manufactured from 80-85% post-consumer recycled newspaper (one of the largest parts of our waste stream) which would otherwise be dumped in landfills, using up valuable space and creating greenhouse gasses whilst decomposing. The newspaper itself is made from plantations of sustainably grown, carbon combatting trees.
Additives
The non-recycled fire-retardant additives in cellulose fibre insulation are environmentally preferable as they are non-toxic and natural. These natural salts and minerals are used in agriculture to promote plant health; stop and prevent wet and dry rot in timber, and they also have various uses in the household and medical fields. Borate additives in Thermguard are harmless to humans and pets; however, they will irritate insects and rodents such that they will not live in the material or use it to build a nest. The result is that Thermguard is a passive, yet effective, pest control measure.
Embodied Energy
The embodied energy of cellulose insulation is far the lowest compared to all other commercially available insulation materials. Furnace-made insulation materials (fibreglass and polyester) require around 10 times more energy to produce compared to cellulose fibre. Cellulose fibre is also 100% biodegradable and will not negatively affect ecosystems or wildlife.
Unsustainable decisions of past generations have severely affected our planet’s ecosystems. From this point on, the decisions we make will affect the sustainability of our planet for all future generations. Remember, Thermguard is Recycled for Your Future.