As we step into the twenty-first century, the design, construction, and maintenance of industrial and commercial structures, residential homes and buildings, and our environment continue to be a focus. With a growing emphasis on sustainability, the manufacture and use of eco-friendly construction materials are not just receiving visibility but are becoming a crucial aspect in the architectural and engineering design communities. This is particularly true for the structural elements within a project’s design scope of work and the potentially impacted surrounding environment: recreational areas, wetlands, rivers, and streams.
An example would be a design strategy for managing stormwater erosion. The construction of retention and/or detention tanks would have a smaller design footprint and serve as an option for the larger retention ponds that may not be feasible. Where the eco-friendly material becomes a factor would be in the material used to line those tank interiors.
As mentioned in the opening sentence, the focus on the environment is becoming an increasingly significant factor in the design community. The criteria were established by the US Green Building Council (USGBC). The USGBC has established a rating system of LEED, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.
The LEED rating system awards points based on projects meeting specific criteria in an established set of categories. Material and Resources, Sustainable Sites, and Innovation are among the categories where LEED credits can be earned.
The LEED certification system consists of four levels, which are based on the number of points achieved. The benefits of achieving LEED certification are substantial, including recognition for your sustainable efforts, potential cost savings, and a healthier indoor environment for occupants.
The current LEED v4.1 standards focus, in part, on reducing atmospheric emissions, materials technology, and the ability of construction materials to lessen their environmental impact.
The latest iteration of LEED, version five (LEED v5,) has been adopted but has yet to be implemented. In Version 5, there will be an increased focus on materials technology and sustainability and a continued focus on reducing carbon and volatile organic compound emissions in indoor environments and into the atmosphere.
In the material selection process, the project designer should not only consider whether a material is fit for the specific application or service, but also its long-term sustainability and cost effectiveness. LEED v5 places a strong emphasis on these factors, encouraging the use of materials that not only meet the immediate needs of a project but also contribute to its long-term sustainability and environmental impact.
Protective industrial coatings and linings can fall into one or more categories where LEED credits are earned.
When designing high-performance protective coatings or lining systems, the project specification should include criteria such as 100% Volume Solids and zero VOCs. In addition, the material should conform to the stringent emission requirements of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method v1.2-2017. This is especially beneficial for the following applications:
CIM ECO 1000, a brand of Chase Corporation, is a cost-effective solution for any project. The selection of ECO 1000 not only helps buildings earn LEED points in categories such as Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality, but also ensures high performance and long-term sustainability.
CIM ECO 1000 is 100% solids, LEED-accredited, asphalt-modified urethane waterproof coating. Its unique features, including durability, flexibility, and protection, make it an ideal choice for long-term waterproofing solutions across various applications. Compared to traditional coatings, CIM ECO 1000 offers a significant 30-50% cost reduction over 20 years, thanks to its fewer system components. The anticipated twenty-year service life will reduce maintenance and reapplication requirements, resulting in a lower total life cycle cost for your projects.
If you need long-term, high-performance, protective coatings and zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs) linings that meet strict environmental regulations and sustainability goals, then select ECO 1000. The supporting products with LEED accreditation include CIM EMT Primer, CIM Scrim, 4EvaSeal Fabric Tape, and 4EvaSeal Double-Sided Tape.