Invista LCA Shows Benefits of Stainmaster, Antron

Kennesaw, GA, Oct. 26, 2009—Stainmaster carpets and carpets composed of Antron fiber can have up to 40 percent lower energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions than the majority of competitive carpets, according to a study commissioned by fiber maker Invista.

The results of a life cycle analysis reflect the eco-profiles of Invista's manufacturing processes for Antron and Stainmaster carpet fibers and the length of time these products perform during their first life.

"Invista commissioned the LCAs and combined the results with carpet performance data because we feel this helps our customers better understand the environmental benefits of our products," said Bobby Berrier, newly appointed global sustainability director for Invista's Performance Surfaces & Materials business.

"We believe that sustainability begins with products that last, so combining third-party cradle-to-gate LCAs with our carpet performance studies helps provide a clearer view of these products' potential environmental impact."

Berrier said that product performance through first life is a very important consideration because longer-lasting products can benefit the environment by reducing the need for replacement and additional manufacturing.

The data was derived from real-world performance testing of Antron and Stainmaster carpets versus the majority of competitive carpets in their respective markets.

These test results were then combined with an eco-profile of Invista's manufacturing processes developed by Boustead Consulting & Associates Ltd., a third-party expert in environmental life-cycle evaluations.

Invista said the results demonstrate that because Antron and Stainmaster carpets have a longer first life than competitive carpets, it can lead to fewer replacements and reduce energy consumption and emissions, as well as minimized waste.