One of the biggest challenges facing governments, industries, companies and our entire society is climate change. Efforts worldwide in confronting this major issue are very important. Every sector is working to understand its role and actions and recognize environmental performance. Chemical companies are also pulling their weight in innovations and energy efficiency to reduce carbon footprints. One example of how we address this at 4 Way Metal is our industrial powder coating in Ontario. Powder coatings are type of industrial coating system that produces a relatively lower carbon footprint than other protection methods. 

Because we know what we do very well to establish our reputation, we take into account all the key elements involved in the process of powder coating in Ontario and Canada.

In order for the coating industry to identify how it can improve environmental performance, understanding the current carbon footprint of coating systems is absolutely necessary. These are in the form of raw materials consumed, energy spent in manufacture and application, and CO2 emissions. According to one study conducted by DSM, compared to other industrial coating systems on a flat metal surface, powder coatings generate the lowest carbon footprint with the following results:

• At thinner layers, powder coatings produce less than 0.33 kg CO2 eq per m2.
• At thicker layers, they generate 0.35 - 0.41 kg CO2 eq per m2.
• Solvent-borne and high solids coatings produce 0.47 - 0.67 kg co2 per m2.

When all solvent-borne coatings on metal substrates are replaced by powder coatings, then the GHG emissions avoided will be equivalent to:

• Annual emissions of about 9.5 million cars; or
• About 2.9 million trips around the globe in a car; or
• Average annual carbon footprint of 1.5 million people in Western Europe. 

The outcomes of this carbon footprint study confirms that powder coatings generate the lowest carbon footprint. The key takeaways vital for effective reduction in carbon footprint of powder coating in Ontario and the rest of the country include reduction of layer thickness, epoxy or hybrid replacement and lowering of curing temperatures. This paradigm shift, adopting low-carbon economy, can contribute dramatically to a greener future.

Want to learn more? Get in touch with 4 Way Metal today to speak with an expert!