Separate EPDs were completed for each of the Perform Panel ranges, which comprise over 48 designs. The EPDs, which transparently communicate the environmental performance of a product over its lifetime, show that Perform Panel outperforms its competitors in terms of Global Warming Potential (GWP).
The GWP of Perform Panel’s most popular 7-ply birch plywood core panel and the Perform Panel Nu-Lock range is carbon positive, with an impact of -1.02kg CO2e and -3.89kg CO2e respectively. This means that 1.02kg of carbon dioxide is stored in every m² of plywood core Perform Panel produced and 3.89kg of carbon is stored in every m² of Nu-Lock panel.
A cost-effective and versatile alternative to tiles, Perform Panel can demonstrate that it is also more sustainable than ceramic tiles, which are more carbon intensive to produce.
The measurements are based on volume produced and unit measurements, providing an accurate and fair representation. Measurements are independently verified and published in the public domain.
Valid for five years, the EPD is based on current available and published data for end-of-life assumptions. With advances in the industry over the next five years, along with improved building recycling processes and ongoing Donaldson Group investments in ESG, it is expected that performance will be even higher at the next review.
“We’re extremely proud to be able to prove the sustainable benefits of our product, showcasing that Perform Panel is not only a cost-effective and stylish alternative to tiles, but also a more environmentally friendly one,” said Stephen Murray, managing director, Nu-Style Products. “With a 35-year guarantee, Perform Panel is also long-lasting, so doesn’t need to be regularly replaced – further reducing its environmental impact.”
“At the Donaldson Group, our goal is to become a leading independent net zero carbon business,” said Steve Galbraith, divisional managing director of Donaldson Retail and Distribution. “This exercise is part of a wider project to understand our impact on the environment across all parts of our business, and a commitment to provide solutions that help our customers to be carbon neutral.
“We have been working to reduce energy consumption and act more sustainably for years, and things like production line efficiencies, use of LED lights and solar panels are all contributing to positive EPD results for Perform Panel and across the Group. This is the first time there has been an EPD for Perform Panel, and we’re thrilled with the results.”
Perform Panel provides a number of hygiene, cleaning and maintenance benefits, as well as versatility and ease of installation. The panels come with a 35-year guarantee, have seamless borders and are five times quicker to install than standard tiles. The panels are suitable for various internal applications within both domestic and commercial environments.
All manufacturing is currently carried out in Aberdeen, with a distribution network throughout the UK. Predominately supplied through the merchant base, it also appeals to contractors, bathroom showrooms, plumber merchants and joiners. Perform Panel has seen substantial growth in the last five years, with expansion into England as well as the Netherlands and Belgium.
Perform Panel, via trading company Nu-Style Products, joined the Donaldson Group in 2016. The 163-year-old family business comprises 17 specialist timber and building product businesses, employing over 1,500 people.
