AZEK Building Products Launches Microsite to Explain Lifecycle Impact and Sustainability of AZEK® Products

SCRANTON, Pa., Aug. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- There is no doubt that "green" and "sustainable" mean different things to different people.  And, while the definition of each is sometimes uncertain, the importance of being environmentally responsible is crystal clear.  Did you know there are sustainable advantages in using AZEK's cellular pvc decking and trim products?  AZEK Building Products, a leading manufacturer of premium, low-maintenance building products and division of CPG International, has taken a lifecycle approach to the issue of sustainability.  AZEK's current and long-term position, along with the other CPG division statements, is detailed in the new CPG Microsite at http://www.CPGgreeninitiative.com.

From company culture, manufacturing processes and materials, to product output and end use over its lifetime, AZEK is committed to environmental stewardship at all levels.  The results of a preliminary lifecycle study determined that AZEK products are a sound choice for consumers concerned with the environment based on product longevity and low maintenance.

"We are diligently working to develop our own corporate 'cradle-to-grave' building systems that reduce landfill costs, fossil fuel use, and the total carbon footprint of our operations and products," said Kristen Nicholas, Manager, Channel Marketing for AZEK.

Because AZEK products replace wood, fewer trees are harvested and the lasting durability of its decking and trim products makes the need for replacement far less frequent.  And, because the products do not require stains, sealants or paint (although the trim and mouldings can be painted for aesthetic purposes), the release of VOCs into the environment are greatly reduced.  For AZEK's decking product line, the easy cleaning aspect translates into less use of harsh chemicals.

"AZEK has established realistic and achievable environmental goals for our manufacturing and business practices," said Nicholas.  From a recycling standpoint, AZEK's manufacturing facilities re-grind materials to eliminate factory scrap and AZEK products are recyclable.  Although not all regions have an infrastructure at this time to recycle pvc, the tide seems to be turning that way.  "We are confident that in the years ahead, even though AZEK product warranties extend for 25 years or longer, if there is a need to recycle AZEK products, there will be pvc recycling programs more widely available."

To further these recycling initiatives, AZEK will be testing the AZEK "Take Back" Program with dealers in select markets where contractors may return AZEK scraps to a dealer where the material will be collected and recycled.  "Many contractors find innovative uses for leftover AZEK material, such as window boxes, deck planters and bird houses, so scrap is typically reduced to begin with," said Nicholas.  "Now the take back program will give them even more options."

AZEK Building Products will further spread the word about sustainable pvc design and practices through an education leadership role with suppliers and customers.  A one hour course entitled, "The Role of pvc in Sustainable Exterior Building Products" has been developed and accredited by the AIA (American Institute of Architects).  This course provides an in-depth understanding of the true environmental impacts of using cellular pvc as an exterior building material.  This is one of three AIA Continuing Education course provided by AZEK.

"We feel the new microsite will help us clear up some misperceptions about pvc-based building materials and further educate the building and architectural community on sound environmental and design practices," said Nicholas.

For more information about AZEK's green and sustainability initiatives, visit the AZEK section of CPG's Sustainable Microsite at www.CPGgreeninitiative.com.

About AZEK Building Products:  With over 25 years of cellular pvc manufacturing experience, AZEK Building Products makes and markets premium, low maintenance exterior building products under the AZEK Brand such as AZEK Deck, the leading brand of stain and scratch resistant decking, and AZEK Trim, the leading brand of trim.  Other AZEK products include AZEK Mouldings, AZEK Porch, and AZEK Rail.  All of these products offer tangible benefits as an ideal wood replacement product for a myriad of outdoor uses.  For more information about AZEK Building Products, call 1-877-ASK-AZEK (275-2935) or visit the AZEK website at www.azek.com.

SOURCE AZEK Building Products