Weekly Update 10-14-2013
Weatherization Keeping Ohioans Warm and Safe
From insulating attics and sidewalls to sealing windows and doors, crews are busy helping low-income residents stay warm in their homes and save money. Ohio’s Home Weatherization Assistance program ranks in the top three in the nation, and John Sarver, utilities program manager with the Cleveland Housing Network, says crews pride themselves on their high quality of work. – http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2013-10-10/energy-policy/weatherization-keeping-ohioans-warm-and-safe/a34945-1
EPA seeks alternate flame retardant for PS building insulation
The report was developed with input from stakeholders from business, government, academia and environmental organizations, EPA said. The report said there are only two viable flame retardant alternatives to HBCD for use in expanded and extruded PS foam insulation under current manufacturing processes. http://www.plasticsnews.com/article/20130924/NEWS/130929967/epa-seeks-alternate-flame-retardant-for-ps-building-insulation#
Study Finds Health And Environmental Risk In Foam Building Insulation
Researchers in the United States are calling for a change to the U.S. building codes, following a study showing that the mandatory flame retardants routinely added to foam insulation* are not only harmful to human health and the environment, but also make no difference to the prevention of fire in buildings where a fire-safe thermal barrier already exists. http://www.todaysfacilitymanager.com/2013/09/study-finds-health-environmental-risk-building-insulation
The benefits of effective insulation
While most of us are aware of the environmental impact of cooling our surroundings artificially, we also find it difficult to brave the sweltering days and nights without air-conditioners.
The truth is that a well-insulated house can experience a discernible drop in temperature.
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/855412
Research and Markets: Global Cold Insulation Market Report to 2018
Cold insulation materials require vapor barriers for effective performance. Globally, there has been a surge in the development of infrastructure, especially in the underdeveloped and developing economies. Even developed countries are modifying their infrastructure or completely changing it for better comfort and working conditions. Companies have started using air conditioning systems on a large scale to provide better working conditions for the employees. With the rise in disposable income in the regions of Asia-Pacific and parts of Africa, the demand of insulation materials will grow at a significant pace. http://www.4-traders.com/news/Research-and-Markets-Global-Cold-Insulation-Market-Report-to-2018–17341023/
Toxic Chemical Flame Retardants in Building Insulation: Historic Bill May Reduce Harmful Exposures
Dr. Vytenis Babrauskas, a leading fire scientist, explains “My recent paper on this subject shows that the current practice of adding flame retardant chemicals to building insulation does not benefit fire safety for most applications. Changing regulations to allow removal of such chemicals will not diminish fire safety, but will be highly beneficial for public health and the environment. I congratulate the State of California for taking this progressive step.” http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/toxic-chemical-flame-retardants-in-building-insulation-historic-bill-may-reduce-harmful-exposures-226960061.html