Earth Day was born in the U.S. in 1970. Galvanized by two back-to-back environmental catastrophes in 1969, a U.S. Senator organized a nationwide "teach-in." The first Earth Day was famously characterized by Walter Conkrite as being celebrated by the "predominantly young," and its success was mixed. Fast forward 53 years. Earth Day is now a global movement with events in more than 190 countries. 

The date never changes—April 22. But the message does, getting stronger and more focused as the planet's ecosystems continue to degrade. This year's Earth Day theme is "Invest In Our Planet." And that's exactly what Euroshield has done since its inception.

Why Is Earth Day 2023 Different?

Right now, the earth is facing unprecedented challenges. Climate change, air and water pollution, and deforestation threaten the ecosystem. Earth Day is a reminder to take action, with sustainability as a war cry. This year, Earth Day organizers are shining a spotlight on those who set the standards for eco-friendly practices. "Invest In Our Planet" is a call to action for businesses and governments. Both groups are in the best position to enact positive change throughout all major industries by increasing sustainability programs and partnerships to help improve the planet's conditions.

Asphalt Shingles Are Not Sustainable

There's a growing awareness of the need for sustainability in the roofing industry. Asphalt shingles are filling up landfills at a record number. Of the 13 million tons, only 10% is recycled. The production and disposal of asphalt shingles also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and water pollution, while production depletes natural resources. Once in a landfill, asphalt shingles release harmful chemicals, like volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs are said to cause irritation to the skin and eyes, issues with our liver and kidneys, and cancer. 

A recent survey revealed that 69% of roofers say they'd like to increase the amount of shingles recycled after tear-off. Euroshield has been at the forefront of recycled shingles. The leadership saw an opportunity to increase that number as well as decrease the number of tires joining those shingles in landfills each year. It's estimated that one billion tires end up in landfills globally each year. Tires do not decompose. Like asphalt shingles, they sit in landfills taking up space and also releasing toxic chemicals. While tire companies are finding ways to recycle, like incorporating recycled carbon black into new tires, Euroshield found a way to combine recycling efforts for both tires and shingles.

Euroshield Roofing Is Investing In Our Planet

Euroshield Roofing is committed to creating fully sustainable roofing materials, and was  recognized in 2019 by Global News for its efforts. This means their products are designed, constructed, maintained, rehabilitated, and demolished with an emphasis on using natural materials and preserving the environment. The makers of Euroshield Rubber Roofing Products, G.E.M. Inc., use virgin crumb rubber from Alberta processing plants. The strict quality control of the recycled materials during the process has resulted in the finest, most durable rubber roofing product available. Here are some ways Euroshield continues to commit to going green.

1. Euroshield shingles are made from 95% recycled material, 70% of which comes from recycled rubber. 
2. It takes about 300 tires to cover a single-family residential home in North America. 
3. To date, Euroshield has helped divert 3.5 million tires from landfills in North America.
4. Euroshield shingles are long-lasting and fully recyclable, so that they won't end up in a landfill like asphalt shingles.
   

Install A Sustainable Euroshield Roof

Euroshield lives by our motto: protecting your home and conserving our planet. Our experts are always looking for ways to increase sustainability with our products, manufacturing process, and end-of-life strategies for our shingles. This Earth Day, consider installing a recycled, earth-friendly Euroshield roof on your home. Our rubber shingles are durable, hail-resistant (one product is even hail-proof!), wind-resistant, energy-efficient, and look incredible. Contact our team for more information, or find an installer near you!