Jan 5 2004
Rising concentrations of greenhouse gases have been linked to changes in the global climate. According to the U.K. Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions (DETR), buildings are responsible for approximately half of total greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. This has led many governments to consider how improving construction practices can help reduce emissions.
Developed by DuPont Nonwovens, an environmentally sound, low-cost roofing system made with DuPont™ Tyvek® is significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The system provides protective vapor open membranes, also known as ‘breather’ underlays, which are placed between the roof and the building to keep the elements out and the warmth in -- while guarding against harmful condensation.
Roofs built with Tyvek® are not only condensation free, but up to 25 percent more energy-efficient than conventionally ventilated roofs, according to the U.K. Building Research Establishment (BRE). If the system is adopted throughout the entire U.K., it would lower CO2 emissions by two million tons every year.
DuPont™ Tyvek® recently became the first product range in the U.K. to be granted universal technical approval from the UK Building Research Establishment (BRE) for its sealed non-ventilated roofing system. In the opinion of Dr. John Hart, senior research engineer at the Building Research Establishment, it can "significantly contribute to a reduction in global warming and improve the efficiency of the whole construction industry."
Reflecting the commitment of DuPont to sustainable growth, the U.K. DuPont™ Tyvek® Construction team was honored this year with the DuPont Corporate Sustainable Growth Excellence Award for its revolutionary roofing system.
For more information on roofing, click here.