Article: Smart insulation

Tuesday June 2, 2009

IT is common sense to use products that have minimum impact on the environment in the face of global warming.

Insulation, by reducing the amount of energy required to heat or cool a building, is environmentally friendly, but don't be fooled into thinking all insulating materials are equal. There is plenty of "greenwashing" taking place to make products look more beneficial, or less harmful, to the environment than they really are.

Cellulose insulation is one of the greenest products in the world. It is made from recycled newsprint and other paper sources – paper that might otherwise end up in landfills, releasing greenhouse gases as it decomposes. Usage of a renewable natural resource, which diverts waste from landfills not only limits greenhouse gas emissions during the manufacturing process, but also prevents waste paper from releasing environmentally harmful gases as they decompose. This is in addition to the natural function of insulation to lower energy usage, thus saving even more greenhouse gas production and emissions.

Here are some key "green" facts about Cellulose insulation:

·Cellulose takes less energy to make than any other insulation material. Fibreglass has 10 times more embodied energy and foam products even more.

·Cellulose has about the largest amount of post-consumer recycled content in the industry – up to 85% recycled newspaper.

·Cellulose insulation prevents the release of greenhouse gases (methane) as it decomposes in landfills.

·Cellulose insulation can naturally break down after its useful life. In the event of a natural disaster, only non-toxic, biodegradable material will be spread around for clean-up.

·Cellulose insulation can be locally produced. Using local recycling programmes, independent recyclers and servicing communities close to home bring new meaning to the old slogan "Think Globally, Act Locally."

More Malaysian homeowners are choosing cellulose insulation not only because it improves their homes' comfort levels and helps save on power bills, but also because it is rated the world's most environment friendly insulation.

Both Malaysian homeowners and builders choosing cellulose insulation have peace of mind that comes from knowing that they are contributing to Malaysia's campaign to achieve a cleaner, healthier environment now and for future generations.

More details and product information can be found in www.homecomfortcfi.com.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Go Green Live Green 2 June 2009