Daily CSR
Daily CSR

Daily CSR
Daily news about corporate social responsibility, ethics and sustainability

Saint-Gobain Launches RenuCore™: Innovative Asphalt Shingle Recycling Technology for Sustainable Construction



10/30/2024


Saint-Gobain, a global leader in sustainable and lightweight construction, has introduced RenuCore™ by CertainTeed, a groundbreaking manufacturing technology. This innovation enables construction and demolition recyclers, along with hot mix asphalt producers, to repurpose asphalt shingle waste at the end of its lifespan by converting it into pellets for use in asphalt paving.
 
Originally developed by Asphaltica and acquired by CertainTeed in 2023, RenuCore™ allows CertainTeed to reduce landfill waste by recycling shingle materials into hot mix asphalt, all while maintaining the same performance standards. This launch aligns with Saint-Gobain’s global Grow and Impact strategy, which focuses on sustainability, including a goal to achieve zero waste-to-landfill at all company locations.
 
The pelletizing process enhances the performance grade of recycled asphalt, aiming to achieve the same durability and longevity as asphalt made from new materials. By addressing early challenges in asphalt shingle recycling, this process improves resistance to issues like rutting, cracking, and shoving.
 
Carmen Bodden, President of CertainTeed Roofing Products Group, highlighted the significance of the launch, stating that RenuCore™ reflects Saint-Gobain’s dedication to cross-industry collaboration in its mission to "Make the World a Better Home." She also emphasized CertainTeed’s long-standing commitment to its motto, "Quality made Certain, Satisfaction Guaranteed," which has guided the company for over 120 years.
 
RenuCore™ will officially debut at the Construction and Demolition Recycling Association’s 10th Shingle Recycling Forum, a key event for the industry, taking place in Louisville, Kentucky, on October 29-30, 2024. Members of CertainTeed’s Roofing team will provide insights at the forum.
 
This launch builds on several recent sustainability initiatives by Saint-Gobain, including: 
  • In August, the company implemented energy-saving measures at its glass mat plant in Charleston, South Carolina, saving over 4,500 MWh of energy.
  • In July, it announced a plan to conserve over 10 million gallons of water annually through upgrades at its CertainTeed Siding facility in Jackson, Michigan.
  • In April, its CertainTeed Innovation Center in Malvern, Pennsylvania, received Core Living Building Ready certification from the International Living Future Institute.
  • In March, its CertainTeed Siding operations reduced emissions by 96% across three U.S. facilities.
  • In February, it completed a heat recovery system at its gypsum plant in Vancouver, British Columbia, resulting in a 15% cut in Scope 1 carbon emissions.
  • In September 2023, Saint-Gobain signed a 15-year agreement with TotalEnergies to purchase 100 MW of solar power, which will offset 90,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually in North America.
 
With over 160 manufacturing sites across the U.S. and Canada, Saint-Gobain’s employees are integral to meeting its sustainability targets.
 
Click here to see the current list of job openings at all Saint-Gobain locations..