TECH-FAB Europe has published a life cycle assessment (LCA) study on glass fibre open mesh fabrics. This publication, an industry first, clearly highlights the environmental benefits of building a strong European supply chain for these products, which are widely used in thermal insulation systems for buildings.

The new report, Life cycle assessment of open mesh products, has been produced as part of a TECH-FAB Europe project to develop association-level LCAs of key technical textiles products. The cradle-to-gate analysis was performed by PwC. TECH-FAB Europe’s members represent approximately 95% of the European production of glass fibre open mesh products.

Main findings

1. From raw material extraction to the factory gate, producing 1 kg of open mesh fabric in Europe generates, on average, 2.17 kg of CO₂eq and a primary energy demand of 48 MJ.
2. The majority of the impact is driven by the supply of raw materials, with glass fibre representing 65% of the total raw materials carbon footprint and other raw materials, mainly the styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) coating, accounting for 32%. In addition to the sourcing of raw materials, onsite energy consumption represents 26% of the carbon footprint, with 69% due to electricity consumption and 31% due to natural gas.
3. European manufacturers of construction solutions can significantly reduce their environmental impacts by using glass fibre open mesh products produced in Europe.

William Guerin, vice-chair of the TECH-FAB Europe Sustainability Working Group: “Glass fibre open mesh products are widely used in building and construction applications such as insulation systems and façade and wall reinforcement. This LCA further demonstrates the sustainability of Europe’s glass fabric industry and the need to support its continued growth. Our customers can also input this data into their own LCA calculations as they strive to design more sustainable products.”

Raphaël Pleynet, secretary general of TECH-FAB Europe: “TECH-FAB Europe is the voice of the technical textiles industry in Europe. This association-level LCA is a milestone for our industry, answering a clear need from regulators, customers and other stakeholders for credible data to drive informed decision-making and improved environmental performance. Our members will also be able to use the European averages calculated as a benchmark from which to identify potential areas for improvement.”

The report, Life cycle assessment of open mesh products, is available on request. Please email communication@tech-fab-europe.eu

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