Cost and Carbon Intensity Analysis of Different Bio-based Insulation Materials across European Countries

Dipartimento di Architettura e Disegno Industriale, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via San Lorenzo - Abazia di San Lorenzo 81031 - Aversa (CE), Italy.

^* Corresponding author: salima.zerari@unicampania.it

Abstract

The use of bio-based insulations in buildings serves several purposes, including reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. Considering the many factors that determine the decision to use these insulations, this paper aims to analyse the financial and carbon cost and carbon intensity impacts of different bio-based insulation materials. Through comparing the carbon intensity of the insulations after performing a Life-cycle assessment (A-C); Global warming potential (incl.+A2), followed by calculating the financial and carbon cost per functional unit. This comparison included insulations based on cellulose, wood fibre, wood wool, cork, straw, hemp, jute, sheep wool, reeds, cotton, paper wool, and prairie grass among others. The results show that cellulose had lower Carbon intensity impacts (0.38-23.95 kgCO₂e) and moderate financial and carbon cost (avg.19 €/m²) in most countries produced in. Whilst Wood wool presented the highest carbon intensity (10.40-111.60 kg CO₂e) in the countries where it was produced. The higher carbon intensity is mostly attributed to the use of inorganic fire retardants and binders. The need to balance the lowest carbon intensity of the options with relatively low financial cost means that cellulose is the most efficient alternative followed by wood fibre, and wood wool the least eff icient. A further comprehensive understanding of the environmental and economic impacts of different insulation materials helps stakeholders make sustainable decisions. Hence, it may lead to improved insulation performance to ensure diversity and competitiveness.