According to the survey, NAIMA members utilized more than 1.6 billion pounds of recycled post-consumer glass and blast furnace slag in the manufacturing process of thermal and acoustical insulation in 2003. In the last decade, NAIMA members have used close to 21 billion pounds of recycled materials.

"I am pleased to announce that our members continue to do their part in protecting natural resources by utilizing recyclable materials," said Ken Mentzer, president and CEO of NAIMA.

Fiberglass insulation is manufactured using a combination of recycled glass, up to 40 percent depending on the manufacturer and the specific plant, as well as the base material of glass, which is sand.

Because sand is constantly being produced through wind and erosion, is a rapidly renewable resource that is widely available.

Slag wool insulation is manufactured from blast furnace slag, which is a byproduct of steel manufacturing.

Publication date: 01/24/2005