Durability is a crucial element of environmental sustainability. In construction, a system of components with low initial environmental impact may appear the responsible choice. But what if it fails prematurely? Not so with SPRA member products. All must be independently certified for performance, including actual and artificial ageing tests.

Use with solar energy and sustainable waste systems - single ply technology is widely used in conjunction with photovoltaic and solar water heating systems. When used as the waterproofing in garden roofs it can contribute to sustainable drainage.

Minimum energy use. Assembly and seaming is rapid and of low energy input. Seam welding, fastening and adhesion does not involve naked flame, hot bonding or waste.

Minimum raw material usage is inherent in single ply. Membranes are typically 1.1-1.8mm thickness and 1.5-2.5 Kg/m2. This reduces transport energy and enables use of lightweight roof structures with low embodied energy.

Low volatile organic compound (VOC) release in construction. Some systems use adhesives for bonding and/or for forming seams. Rapid product development in this area is leading to the replacement of many solvent-based products with low-VOC alternatives.

Recovery and re-use of old and ex-factory membrane is straightforward. A pilot project to extend the German Roofcollect scheme to the UK is in progress. Roofcollect works with logistics companies and re-processors to collect new and post-consumer waste. All products supplied by SPRA members can be re-used to avoid landfill.  

SPRA does not publish or support a 'league table' approach to the environmental impact of products. Because each roofing project is unique and each client has their own environmental priorities, we believe the supply side should present environmental data which consumers can use to inform their selections. All SPRA members can provide this information. Our Environment Task group is working to develop more information, as research data becomes available.