Spray foam insulation brings ambitious sustainability goals within reach
In September, California Governor Jerry Brown signed ambitious climate change legislation that set an even higher bar than previous laws – California would now have to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. This integrated plan to address climate change includes doubling energy efficiency savings at existing buildings. Along with other state efforts, including the California Public Utilities Commission’s announcement in 2007 to make all new homes in California zero net energy (ZNE) by 2020, California’s push to meet such lofty goals will require quick implementation of innovative building product solutions.
Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation is an effective product solution that can increase the energy efficiency of buildings and reduce the carbon footprint of existing homes.* The Spray Foam Coalition will exhibit at Greenbuild 2016 in Los Angeles. At Greenbuild – the world’s largest conference and expo dedicated to green building – the Spray Foam Coalition will showcase how SPF insulation can help builders, architects and contractors achieve sustainability goals.
In the United States, residential and commercial buildings account for about 40 percent of total energy consumption, more than either the industrial or transportation sectors. SPF insulation can help increase the energy efficiency of buildings by sealing cracks and gaps in the walls and roofs and minimizing energy loss. The resulting reduction in building energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions could be significant. As California endeavors to double the energy efficiency savings of existing buildings, SPF insulation should be considered in builders’ and architects’ product selection process.
In addition to existing buildings, SPF insulation is a vital component for ZNE homes meeting new insulation requirements. A ZNE home produces as much energy as it consumes through energy efficient designs and on-site renewable energy sources. New ZNE homes will require builders to increase insulation R-values and decrease air leakage for maximum energy efficiency. Installed as a single product to provide a layer of insulation in walls, floors and ceilings, SPF can significantly reduce heating and cooling loads and minimize energy loss.
To learn more about spray foam insulation and its energy efficiency benefits, drop by the Spray Foam Coalition’s Booth #2705 at Greenbuild from October 5-6!
* Savings vary. Find out why in the seller’s fact sheet on R-values. Higher R-values mean greater insulating power.
