From low-VOC formulations to long-term durability, here’s what many specifiers review when evaluating environmentally friendly* resins.
In modern construction, epoxy resin choices influence more than bond strength: they play a direct role in indoor air quality and meeting the expectations of today’s green building standards. As project teams look for ways to reduce emissions, minimise waste and extend asset life, more environmentally friendly resins are becoming a key part of sustainable specification strategies.
But environmental impact isn’t measured by a single specification or data point.
Depending on the project, specifiers may consider a range of factors: from VOC emissions and long-term durability to product formulation and manufacturing practices.
Here’s a closer look at some common considerations when selecting a more environmentally friendly resin for commercial and infrastructure projects.
Lower-VOC formulations
One of the most widely recognised features is the level of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in the epoxy system.
For many commercial projects, compliance with specified VOC limits is an important part of the material selection process, particularly where Green Star or similar sustainability targets apply.
VOCs are chemicals released into the air as some construction products cure or dry. Many green building projects prioritise low-emitting materials to support health, safety and indoor environmental quality – particularly in commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, education projects and other occupied spaces.
Across the Megapoxy range, our epoxy systems are predominantly classified as low or very-low VOC. Supporting VOC test reports and technical data sheets are available for relevant products.
Product formulation
The ingredients used for epoxy formulations are vital in shaping the overall environmental profile.
As part of our ongoing product development, Megapoxy has successfully phased out any raw materials involving fluoropolymers (PFAS or “forever” chemicals) from our formulations and we don’t use respirable crystalline silica (RCS) as a raw material in our manufacturing processes.
We’re also continuing to investigate lower-VOC and bio-based materials as they evolve while ensuring the performance, strength, durability and lifespan our customers expect.
Our range continues to evolve, with our chemists, technicians and quality specialists always working to develop more sustainable formulations guided by the latest scientific advancements and regulatory standards.
Long-term performance
One of the most sustainable assets is often the one that doesn’t need constant maintenance or early replacement.
The right high-performance epoxy solutions from the start – as well as effective repair systems that prevent premature replacement – can keep existing buildings and infrastructure in service for longer. In turn, this cuts the materials, construction waste, energy, emissions and disruption associated with frequent maintenance and rebuilding.
One example is Singapore’s PUB lime saturator, where Megapoxy H and HT were used to restore deteriorated concrete. More than 30 years later, those repairs continue to perform in a demanding operating environment, demonstrating the long-term durability of the system.
For bridges, water facilities, marine structures and industrial assets, extending service life can deliver both practical and environmental value – while making better use of the infrastructure already in place.
Manufacturing practices
Environmental considerations don’t stop with the finished product.
Many manufacturers are investing in initiatives that improve the efficiency of their operations, reduce waste and lower their environmental footprint.
At Megapoxy, these initiatives include over 20% of our operations now being powered by solar energy, saving emissions equivalent to 9,895 trees.
We’ve also introduced closed‑loop recycling, precision dosing technology to reduce manufacturing waste, an electric forklift fleet and increased use of recyclable and recycled packaging. Our ISO 9001‑certified Quality Management System supports consistent, high‑quality products and continuous improvement across operations, while consolidated distributor shipments help reduce transport‑related emissions.
Supporting green building projects
Green Star is Australia’s leading sustainability rating system for buildings, fitouts and communities, while LEED and BREEAM are widely recognised internationally. These systems assess the performance of the whole project – covering areas like energy, carbon, water, health, materials and waste.
While products themselves aren’t rated under the system, material selection can contribute to credits across a range of areas.
For epoxy systems, this may include:
- Indoor environmental quality through the use of low-emitting products.
- Resource efficiency by extending the service life of existing assets and reducing the need for replacement.
- Sustainable infrastructure by supporting repair and rehabilitation rather than demolition and rebuild, where appropriate.
The exact requirements vary between projects and rating systems, so it’s important to review the relevant criteria and product documentation during specification. The Megapoxy team can also help identify suitable systems and provide the technical information needed to support product selection.
Looking beyond a single claim
Choosing more environmentally friendly resins is rarely about one feature alone.
The best decisions come from looking at the complete picture: how a product is formulated, how it performs over its service life and supports repair rather than replacement, and the steps taken to continually improve the way it is manufactured.
At Megapoxy, we’re continually refining our formulations, manufacturing processes and operations while delivering high-performing epoxy systems for real challenges across construction, infrastructure and industry.
Need project advice or more information on our sustainability initiatives?
Read more about our sustainability initiatives, download our full Sustainability Commitment, or contact the Megapoxy team for technical advice on selecting the right epoxy system for your project.
* In reference to Megapoxy, “environmentally friendly” in this article refers to our ongoing initiatives to reduce environmental impact through product development and manufacturing improvements. It does not mean that any product is impact-free or environmentally neutral.