Buildings and the built environment are responsible for nearly 40% of energy use in the U.S., making energy efficiency a key factor in sustainability. To address this, Covestro and Carlisle Construction Materials are partnering to introduce bio-circular products to the construction industry.
Covestro will provide Carlisle with methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) made from ISCC PLUS certified mass balanced bio-circular materials, which have up to a 99% lower carbon footprint compared to fossil-based MDI. This translates to a CO2 reduction potential of 2.4 kg per kg of MDI produced. This will allow Carlisle to manufacture high-performance polyiso insulation boards with reduced embodied carbon.
This collaboration builds on decades of innovation between the two companies. As sustainability targets in construction grow, Covestro and Carlisle are poised to develop and launch advanced insulation materials.
“Covestro’s commitment to becoming fully circular aligns with our customers’ scope 3 goals, such as those of Carlisle,” said Hermann-Josef Doerholt, global head of Performance Materials at Covestro. “Our ambitious sustainability targets drive us to develop solutions that positively impact the entire supply chain.”
Covestro will supply its Mondur® CQ 489 MS isocyanate, part of its “Circular Intelligence” product line, which includes at least 25% alternative raw materials from biomass or recycled plastics.
Carlisle Construction Materials, a leader in building envelope solutions, aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The company will produce bio-based rigid foam insulation, containing 5% bio-circular content, under its SynTec, Versico, Hunter Panels, and WeatherBond brands. This new insulation product adds to Carlisle’s range of sustainable building materials.
“Carlisle Construction Materials has long been a pioneer in sustainable construction products,” said Steve Schwar, President of Carlisle Construction Materials. “Our new bio-based rigid foam insulation underscores our commitment to environmental responsibility while providing advanced building materials to our customers. Our partnership with Covestro is crucial in advancing material science and supporting the industry’s shift toward sustainability.”
Julia Rubino, head of sales for Performance Materials at Covestro North America, added, “Our innovative bio-circular raw materials demonstrate that sustainable solutions are available today. Working with Carlisle, a leader in construction, showcases our dedication to future-focused sustainability.”
Covestro operates ISCC PLUS certified facilities worldwide, including in Baytown, Texas. The company aims to achieve climate neutrality (scope 1 and 2) by 2035 and for scope 3 by 2050. Covestro continues to expand its portfolio of circular products.
