Spray-applied polyurethane foam currently has a higher global warming potential (GWP) than other insulation materials. New regulations, which will come into force soon, will require all manufacturers to change their blowing agent so that their final product reaches carbon neutrality as much as possible. The goal is that by January 1, 2021, spray-applied polyurethane foam will have a GWP almost as identical to other insulation technologies like cellulose and fiberglass, which have a GWP of zero.
Foam insulation offers several ecological benefits. More compact than other insulating materials, it requires fewer trips for each construction project, which helps reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from freight transportation. Moreover, the metal drums are fully reusable and recyclable. Also, as mentioned earlier, the high thermal performance of foam insulation prevents energy losses caused by air leaks due to poor insulation, thus reducing winter heating and summer cooling energy, and GHG emissions related to energy production and consumption.
Finally, the use of spray-applied polyurethane can contribute to obtaining LEED v3 and v4 credits in the following categories: energy and atmosphere, innovation and design processes, materials and resources, and quality of outdoor environments.