The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) has released the results of its annual recycled content survey, revealing a significant milestone in the industry's sustainability efforts. In 2023, NAIMA members across the United States and Canada utilized more than 3.0 billion pounds of recycled glass and slag in the production of residential, commercial, industrial, and air-handling thermal and acoustical insulation.
The survey data provides a detailed breakdown of recycling efforts across North America. In the United States, facilities repurposed more than 2.3 billion pounds of recycled glass, while their Canadian counterparts utilized over 381 million pounds. Additionally, U.S. and Canadian facilities reported a combined use of more than 413 million pounds of recycled slag in 2023.
This substantial use of recycled materials brings several environmental benefits. By incorporating materials from secondary sources, the insulation industry significantly reduces the demand for virgin resources. Furthermore, this practice saves valuable landfill space by diverting glass containers and slag from the solid waste stream.
NAIMA's recycling program, initiated in 1992, has made remarkable progress over the years. Since its inception, member plants have successfully diverted more than 103.5 billion pounds of recycled materials from the waste stream, showcasing a long-term commitment to environmental stewardship.
Curt Rich, president and CEO of NAIMA, emphasized the industry's ongoing dedication to sustainability. The insulation industry continues to demonstrate its commitment to using recycled materials in the production of these essential products. With increased focus on whole building decarbonization, insulation products will be a critical component of that activity. Sourcing recycled materials is one way the industry can decrease its environmental impact while producing essential insulation materials that ultimately lower building emissions.
As the construction industry increasingly prioritizes sustainability and energy efficiency, the role of insulation in reducing carbon emissions becomes even more crucial. The insulation sector's commitment to recycling and sustainable manufacturing practices positions it as a key player in the global effort to combat climate change and promote environmentally responsible building practices.
