Setting the Standard for Sustainability One Panel at a Time

Q: How does Kingspan contribute to advancing sustainability in construction projects?

A: Kingspan is deeply committed to sustainability through its Planet Passionate program, building on the success of its previous net-zero initiative. Planet Passionate, spanning from 2020 to 2030, focuses on four key areas: reducing embodied carbon, promoting material circularity, conserving water, and increasing renewable energy use. This involves responsibly sourcing materials, minimizing carbon emissions throughout production and the building life cycle, and ensuring materials are recyclable or reusable. Kingspan's efforts not only contribute significantly to environmental conservation in construction but also, improve its global operations.

Kingspan ensures sustainability throughout the life cycle of buildings. Materials are designed for recyclability or reusability, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The total rainwater harvested from our manufacturing locations globally was 56.7 million liters.  Even in water-scarce areas like Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, we started capturing condensation from air conditioning units during droughts, this way we could also do our part in the important mission of taking good care of water.

Kingspan also installs solar panels across its facilities and is involved in recycling. We have a PET recycling initiative in the Mediterranean to clean up plastic in the sea. This recycled PET is integrated into the Insulated Metal Panels we produce here in Mexico.  Kingspan also tackles the environmental impact of materials like polyurethane, a flammable substance still used widely in Mexico due to lack of regulation. 

Q: What are the main incentives for construction companies and end-users to consider including energy-efficient or sustainable materials in their projects?

A: There needs to be a genuine interest in building responsibly to positively impact the building’s occupants and the entire community surrounding it. Unfortunately, over the past 25 to 30 years, there has been a trend toward glass-heavy buildings. Studies show that these glass structures can significantly raise temperatures in densely packed urban areas due to their reflective properties. While aesthetically pleasing, we need to think beyond mere appearance and prioritize materials that are functional, sustainable, and responsible.

It is crucial to consider the broader implications of material choices, not only for their visual appeal but also for their environmental impact and functionality. Building responsibly means selecting materials that contribute to energy efficiency, reduce heat island effects, reduce embodied carbon, and promote overall environmental sustainability. This approach benefits both the immediate occupants and the larger community, aligning with principles of sustainable development and responsible urban planning.

Q: What makes insulated metal panels a cost-effective solution compared to other construction materials?

A: The panels' primary function is thermal insulation, which saves energy due to its high efficiency. This cause-and-effect relationship is achieved through ongoing advances in our insulation technology across 21 R&D centers globally. Our formula is continually evolving; for example, Kingspan stopped using polyurethane more than 25 years ago, opting to use polyisocyanurate exclusively. As of 2024, we are investing in bringing QuadCore to Mexico, a new generation of foam that enhances thermal insulation properties and fire performance. This proactive approach is crucial as building fires are common, unfortunately.

Sustainability-wise, reducing energy consumption is pivotal. Kingspan plays a critical role in the cold chain sector, providing technical support for logistics and distribution centers handling perishable goods and pharmaceuticals. Whether it is designing a cold storage facility or a commercial center focused on energy efficiency and environmental friendliness, Kingspan's engineering teams offer comprehensive pre-sale consultation, post-sale support, and specification services.

Our teams collaborate closely with developers and architects to understand project needs thoroughly. If Kingspan is not the optimal solution, we transparently advise on alternatives. This customer-centric approach has fostered successful partnerships with industry leaders like FEMSA and Bimbo, where our shared commitment to sustainability has driven meaningful synergies. 

Q: What role does Kingspan Mexico play in serving construction needs in the region? 

A: At Kingspan Mexico, we play a pivotal role in serving the construction needs of the region by providing top-quality insulated metal panels that meet the demanding standards of modern building practices. Our strategic location allows us to efficiently cater to the diverse needs of the construction industry across Mexico and Latin America.

Firstly, Kingspan Mexico is committed to delivering superior products that enhance the energy efficiency and sustainability of buildings. Our insulated metal panels are designed to provide exceptional thermal performance, helping reduce energy consumption and lower operational costs for our clients. This aligns with global trends towards sustainable construction and positions us as a leader in green building solutions.

Secondly, our manufacturing facility in Mexico leverages the latest technologies and best practices to ensure the highest standards of quality and precision. We adhere to rigorous quality control processes and international certifications, guaranteeing that our products consistently meet or exceed industry standards. This commitment to excellence sets us apart from our competitors and instills confidence in our clients.

In summary, Kingspan Mexico is a vital player in the construction industry, providing top-tier insulated metal panels that promote energy efficiency, sustainability, and superior quality. Our dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and market responsiveness solidifies our position as a trusted and competitive leader in the region's construction sector."

Q: What challenges does the Mexican market represent for construction material companies like Kingspan? 

A: The Mexican market presents several unique challenges for modern construction systems, but these challenges also offer opportunities for innovation and growth.  The market still relies heavily on traditional methods, such as using concrete and bricks, even for vertical buildings.  Awareness and education about the benefits of modern construction materials like insulated metal panels can be limited. We address this by actively engaging with stakeholders through educational initiatives, training programs, and collaboration with industry professionals to promote the advantages of our products in terms of energy efficiency, sustainability, and long-term cost savings.

Kingspan Mexico is committed to modernizing and promoting sustainability in construction. We are introducing more versatile and lightweight construction systems, such as our advanced panels, which not only improve thermal performance but are also safer in a fire. We are also working to influence the updating of construction codes and regulations in Mexico, advocating for more responsible and sustainable practices in the industry.

Kingspan’s commitment to quality and compliance means we invest in thorough testing and certification processes, ensuring our products exceed all necessary standards.  Our people are the most important factor in our success as a customer-centric company. Through the commitment and dedication of everyone involved, we deliver the highest quality and service, providing the best panels to our customers.

While the Mexican market presents several challenges, Kingspan is well-equipped to navigate them through strategic planning, innovation, compliance, and strong customer relationships. These efforts not only help us overcome obstacles but also strengthen our market position and contribute to the advancement of the construction industry in Mexico."

Kingspan Insulated Panels is an Ireland-based advanced insulation and building enveloping solution company. It strives to provide high-quality, energy-efficient products and solutions that contribute to a more sustainable environment.