EPS insulation in Europe: The Road to a Sustainable Building Stock
Europe has set out ambitious climate targets, placing the building sector at the forefront of potential energy savings and CO2 emission reductions. The innovative use of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) insulation stands as a pathway to achieving . As a material that excels in energy efficiency, it plays a pivotal role in the future of the European building stock. Find out about its properties, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), and the impact of well-insulated building envelope in optimised building performance below.
The Properties of EPS Insulation
EPS insulation is widely recognised for its incredible thermal resistance, lightweight, and adaptability to various building applications. These properties consolidate EPS as an ideal solution to significantly reduce energy consumption in buildings and thus lower heating and cooling costs. Additionally, EPS's durability and resistance to moisture ensure its lifecycle matches that of the building itself.
The environmental credentials of EPS are further reinforced by its recyclability, perfectly aligning with the European Union's vision for a circular economy. The ability to recycle EPS at the end of its life cycle minimises waste and promotes resource efficiency. By leveraging the advanced properties of EPS, the building sector can make substantial strides towards achieving energy efficiency targets and enhancing building sustainability.
Reducing CO2 Emissions and Enhancing Sustainability
EPS insulation contributes significantly to CO2 emission reductions, particularly in the construction sector. By dramatically improving the energy performance of buildings, EPS insulation reduces heat loss through the building envelope. In some examples, such as buildings insulated in Ansbach, Germany, energy consumption has been reduced by up to two-thirds, directly leading to lower CO2 emissions due to reduced heating requirements.
Moreover, the energy required to produce EPS insulation is offset within a few months, thanks to the significant reduction in heating energy consumption. Typically, the CO2 emissions generated during the production phase are recouped within six months to two years, making EPS a highly sustainable choice over its extensive lifespan. Over time, the use of EPS insulation significantly lowers a building’s overall CO2 footprint.
All this serves to make significant strides towards the 2030 goal laid out by the European Climate Law to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55%, compared to their 1990 levels.
Advancing the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and Achieving a Climate-Neutral Building Stock by 2050
The European Union’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) is a cornerstone in the drive towards a climate-neutral building stock by 2050. By setting ambitious targets for energy efficiency and emissions reduction, the EPBD aims to transform the energy performance of both new and existing buildings across Europe. EPS plays a crucial role in this endeavour, offering an effective and cost-efficient insulation solution that can be deployed rapidly and across a wide range of building types, from residential to commercial structures.
The External Thermal Insulation Composite System (ETICS) is a standout example of the advanced application of EPS. As a high-performance cladding system for building exteriors, ETICS significantly enhances thermal insulation, thereby improving overall energy efficiency. Beyond façade applications, EPS is also extensively used in flat roof insulation. Its lightweight yet durable properties make it ideal for this application, providing excellent thermal performance while supporting the structural integrity of flat roofs.
Pioneering a Sustainable Future in European Buildings
As Europe continues its journey towards more sustainability and energy efficiency, EPS stands out as a key material that bridges the gap between current practices and future aspirations. Through its exceptional insulation properties, contribution to the EPBD, and role in and flatroof insulation, EPS holds the potential to transform the European building landscape.