SUSTAINABILITY
Responsible choices throughout the project
Material choice should be based on the application, expected service life and documented requirements. We work to use resources well and support safe, responsible operations.
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Composites, steel and aluminium
Material choices should be assessed across the full service life. Production, weight, surface treatment, maintenance and end-of-life handling can all affect a material’s overall environmental impact.
The European Composites Industry Association (EuCIA) has published a life cycle assessment comparing an SMC composite solution with equivalent solutions in steel and aluminium.
For the stationary application analysed, with an expected service life of more than 30 years, the calculation showed up to 54% lower global warming potential (GWP) for the composite solution.
The assessment included production, forming and recycling. For steel and aluminium, surface treatment and painting during service life were also included.
Specific to the solution analysed
The result applies to the particular solution and assumptions assessed. It does not mean that all fibreglass or GRP products generally have 54% lower GWP than steel or aluminium.
Results depend on factors including material type, design, manufacturing method, service life, maintenance and recycling scenario.
Source: European Composites Industry Association (EuCIA), Composites Recycling Made Easy, 2013, page 7. The LCA study was carried out by the European Alliance for SMC/BMC through LCS Life Cycle Simulation GmbH and reviewed by independent experts against ISO 14040 and ISO 14044.
Read the EuCIA source document (PDF) →
PDF copy hosted by the Finnish Plastics Industries Federation. Document owner: EuCIA.
Practical priorities
Service life and maintenance
Match material, resin and design to the operating environment. Plan inspection and maintenance so the solution can fulfil its intended function over time.
Material use and waste
Plan cutting and fabrication to limit waste. Monitor resource use and waste handling, and consider reuse where condition and requirements allow it.
Weight and transport
Low component weight can influence handling and transport planning. Any environmental comparison must use documented, project-relevant assumptions.
Working environment
Risk assessment, training and preventive measures are part of safe workshop and installation work. Employees are encouraged to report hazards and unwanted incidents.
Responsible suppliers
Supplier evaluation and follow-up support expectations for quality, working conditions and environmental practices.
Reuse and material recovery
We support work to improve reuse and recovery of glass fibre. Available treatment options must be checked for the material and the local waste system.
Policies and responsibility
Read about our quality, health and safety, environmental and ethical principles.
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