Expanded polystyrene, extruded polystyrene, and closed-cell polyurethane are petroleum derivatives that exhibit high embodied energy and include ecologically questionable ingredients, such as benzene, styrene, or chlorofluorocarbons, in their processing. Fiberglass or mineral wool batts consist primarily of nontoxic substances (glass or basalt fibers, respectively) yet still require a measurable quantity of processing, although their carbon footprint is generally lower than that of fossil fuel-based insulation. Bio-based materials like cellulose or wood fiber insulation offer better environmental performance in both embodied and operating phases of the material life cycle—particularly when a large percentage of recycled content is used.
Read More
