flexiblefullpage - default
interstitial1 - interstitial
Currently Reading

How Insulation Can Save Lives

Advertisement
billboard -
Insulation & Air Sealing

How Insulation Can Save Lives

Benefits include lower CO2 emissions and better air quality


By By David Weissman July 9, 2016
Thermal imaging camera at work. Photo: 123rf.com /suljo
This article first appeared in the July 2016 issue of Pro Remodeler.

Insulation-related health benefits in the U.S. could save 320 lives per year and cut U.S. power-plant carbon-dioxide emissions by more than 3 percent, according to research from the Boston University School of Public Health.

Researchers devised simulations in response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s “Clean Power Plan,” which set up state-specific carbon-dioxide reduction goals for electricity-generating stations that burn fossil fuels. The EPA issued the goals in August 2015.

To examine the carbon-dioxide potential and benefits associated with more home insulation, researchers used estimates of current home insulation levels and other building characteristics to simulate home energy use for each state. They then simulated home energy use as if every home were insulated to International Energy Conservation Code 2012 levels.

The findings reveal that these levels of home insulation would reduce fossil-fuel power station carbon-dioxide emissions by roughly 3.6 percent. The researchers also concluded that increased insulation levels would improve ambient air quality. Specifically, the reduction in fine particulate matter and ozone concentrations would result in 320 fewer pollution-related premature deaths nationwide each year.

Related Articles

Tips for Insulating Older Homes

Eliminating Building Envelope Confusion: X Marks the Spot

 


written by

David Weissman

David Weissman is associate editor for Professional Remodeler


Add new comment

Plain text

  • No HTML tags allowed.
  • Web page addresses and email addresses turn into links automatically.
  • Lines and paragraphs break automatically.
leaderboard2 - default

Related Stories

5 Standout Energy-Efficient Products Spotted at IBS 2023

See what this green remodeler recommends from the show floor

Step-by-Step Install of a High-Performance Cathedral Ceiling

See how Model ReModel 2022 constructed its vaulted ceiling

Why Blow-In Cellulose Insulation?

Hear why the Model ReModel contractor chose blow-in cellulose and watch the installation

Top 100 Products 2022

The industry's best, determined by our audience

To Vent or Not to Vent a Home?

The Model ReModel 2022 remodeler must make a decision for the net-zero accessory dwelling unit

How to Replace a Window in a Fat Wall (Part 1)

Jobsite Know-How details how to install a window... again. This time it’s in a fat wall wrapped with an air barrier and exterior rigid insulation

Using XPS to Insulate Foundation

Symbi Homes plans to achieve several green certifications for its remodel of a 19th-century Victorian, our Model ReModel 2022 project.

·

Owens Corning® Unveils PINK Next Gen™ Fiberglas™ Insulation

Owens Corning, the insulation industry's most trusted brand, announces the introduction of PINK Next Gen™ Fiberglas™ insulation, an advanced building…

Pro's Pick: PINK Next Gen Fiberglas Insulation

This Pro's Pick is a new insulation that is easy to use and keeps its rigidity while remaining soft to the touch. 

Top 100 Products for 2020

The year's top 100 products as decided by you, our readers

Advertisement
boombox2 -
Advertisement
halfpage2 -
Advertisement
native1 -

More in Category




Advertisement
native2 -
Advertisement
halfpage1 -
Advertisement
leaderboard1 -