Vinyl Material Council publishes sustainability white paper.

American Architectural Manufacturers Association Apr 04, 2012

Press Release Summary:

Titled "Sustainable Vinyl: One material, virtually endless possibilities," VMC's white paper aims to dispel myths and confirm truths about vinyl as a sustainable material, as well as outline material's durability and sustainability. Significant portions of paper explain how vinyl measures up in terms of carbon neutrality, controlled waste management, zero-emissions, and zero accumulation of toxic materials in nature.

Original Press Release:

AAMA's Vinyl Material Council Publishes Sustainability White Paper

Schaumburg, Ill. -- The Vinyl Material Council (VMC) of the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) has released a new white paper on sustainability entitled "Sustainable Vinyl: One material, virtually endless possibilities." The overall goals of the paper are to dispel myths and confirm truths about vinyl as a sustainable material, as well as outline the material's durability and sustainability.

"Ultimately, this document highlights the critical role vinyl plays in sustaining the environment, as well as its versatility," says Hallie Smith-Petee (PolyOne), chair of the VMC Sustainability White Paper Task Group.

The paper discusses several merits of vinyl in fenestration as well as in other applications -- from safety and longevity, to its recyclable nature and reliable historical performance.

Significant portions of the white paper explain how vinyl measures up in terms of four conditions for sustainability:

Carbon neutrality -- the consideration of the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere as a result of the manufacture and use of the product in its intended application

Controlled waste management system -- the minimization of the amount of material going into the waste stream and the avoidance of a concentration of material not naturally occurring; includes considerations for product longevity, scrap recycling and post-industrial recycling

Zero-emissions -- the assurance that persistent organic compounds from the whole life cycle do not result in systematic increases in concentration in nature

Zero accumulation of toxic materials in nature -- the assurance that no accumulation of toxic materials occurs in nature as a result of the product life cycle

Wrapping up the paper is a section addressing myths and truths about vinyl in which topics such as environmental impact, recyclability, low dioxin releases and fire safety are discussed.

"Sustainable Vinyl: One material, virtually endless possibilities" is available for free download in AAMA's online Publication Store. Companies are encouraged to include a link to the white paper on their own websites.

More information about AAMA and its activities can be found via the AAMA Media Relations page or on the AAMA website, www.aamanet.org.
AAMA is the source of performance standards, product certification,
and educational programs for the fenestration industry.sm