Going Green

Going Green with Perlite

Perlite is a mined material, but due to the way in which it is handled and processed, along with its myriad uses in sustainability efforts across industries, perlite is defined as a sustainable material by the The Perlite Institute. The focus is on using this natural product to extract the most good from the resource, while making decisions and taking actions to generate value for the largest number of people, both today and on into the future.

Globally, perlite mining takes place on an area that equates to less than 8 square km (3 sq miles). Compared to what is available for harvesting, this is only a small fraction, and yet it serves the world’s needs. The mining process does not involve harsh chemicals and does not create a waste product, as all perlite grades are useful. Water can be close-loop recycled, and processing water can be reclaimed for secondary uses. Bulk purchasing by perlite distributors can also help to cut down on packaging waste–contact us to inquire about sizing options.

In general, getting perlite from ground to perlite distributors has only a limited environmental impact. The energy consumed during perlite processing is offset by its countless sustainable applications. The perlite industry is also actively working on sustainability through responsible mining practices that include studies to ensure that any impacts to local biology and archaeology are minimized. Once sites are no longer mined, they can be reclaimed to their original biological status.

Sustainability Benefits of Using Perlite

Perlite is 100% natural and is located in deposits around the globe for local harvesting and acquisition. Because perlite is naturally inert, it will not leach hazardous substances into the environment and does not off-gas when used indoors. In fact, it is pH neutral, meaning that it will not adversely impact soilless mixes that are formulated with a specific pH, and will not alter the pH of natural, in-ground soils.

Perlite’s lightweight nature makes it ideal for use in transportation as a packing material, reducing fuel consumption due to lower package weight. Because of its function as a thermal insulator, perlite can reduce heating and cooling needs, enhancing energy efficiency, and helping to contribute to a lower carbon footprint.

Thanks to perlite’s high porosity and water-retentive abilities, it can help to prevent excess stormwater runoff while also filtering captured water. In the same vein, perlite can assist in the cleanup of hazardous waste spills, preventing contamination of local waterways and aquatic habitats.

In agricultural and horticultural settings, perlite helps to promote healthy plant growth while also reducing irrigation needs, saving water and energy. It can also function as a stand-in for native mineral soil. In certain settings, this replacement can help to preserve valuable topsoil. And because perlite does not biodegrade in soil, it is a permanent solution.

Rooftop Gardening with Perlite

By mixing horticultural perlite and peat moss together, growers can produce rooftop gardens that give back to the environment without the typically heavy weight of normal soil. Additional advantages are that perlite is lightweight, doesn't deteriorate, retains water and plant food, while also being chemically inert, completely sterile, safe, and easy to use.

Earthbag Roundhouse Building with Perlite

Perlite is a top choice for building earthbag roundhouses because its R-value of 2.7 per inch. 15” provides R-40 walls all around. That’s roughly double that of a superinsulated house. Even the tiniest heater would keep a small roundhouse warm if paired with adequate roof and floor insulation.

Because perlite is naturally inert, it is non-toxic, rot-proof, fire-resistant, and is not adversely affected by moisture. These features make perlite ideal for earth-bermed or earth-sheltered construction.

PVP Industries and Sustainability

At PVP Industries, we are committed to supporting sustainability. From offering bulk perlite options for perlite distributors to our processing techniques, we aim to reduce environmental impact, while also making this incredible material available to various industries where it can be used for a wide array of applications and green initiatives.

Partner With Us For Your Perlite Needs

If you are a perlite distributor looking for a perlite manufacturer with a range of perlite grades and packaging options, look no further–PVP Industries has what you need. We are established and experienced perlite manufacturers, and PVP perlite is available in any size or quantity you may require. Contact us today to learn more about perlite grades and their applications.

Check out these additional resources to learn more about the many sustainable uses for perlite:

• Green Building - Perlite Solutions for the Green Building Industry

• Green Home Building - Light-Weight Concrete

• Water conservation - Perlite Water Holding Capacity

• Rooftop Gardening

• Water Quality Management

• Perlite Sustainability Fact Sheet