Any Thermal insulation which is environmental friendly?

Answer 1

I'm a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. We recently completed a project for two homes in which the insulation used was recycled cotton. It was supplied in eight foot sections in batts the thickness and width of the cells in the wall. It was fairly dense and I doubt that it would settle much over time. As I recall, it had the same R rating as equivalent fiberglass insulation.

I suppose you would say that this insulation is environmentally friendly, in that, being made of cotton, it would decompose if any was released to the outside. I'm not sure what fire retardant chemical was used, but I suspect it was also eco-friendly.

Just an interesting note is that, while we were installing the insulation, lint was everywhere. We had to vacuum everything. Also, the insulation is difficult to cut. We even tried electric carving knives. I would not use it again if I had a choice.

Answer 2

not really the ones listed above have to use a fire retardant and also tend to settle over time ( now you can always use mass which is how log homes and adobe works )

you might want to look into what fiberglass is made of - you will be surprised

Answer 3

Cellulose fibre (from recycled paper) or
Sheeps wool
or recycled cotton (might be moxed with other fibre - see 2nd link below)