On June 27, 2019, the Government of Canada’s Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) opened the application process for a grant to develop next generation biobased foam insulation products. Called the Plastics Challenge, this funding opportunity seeks solutions that result in foam insulation products (either spray foam or rigid foam board) that:

• Are predominantly derived from Canadian forest residue;

• Have similar insulation values (within 20 percent) as currently available petroleum-based versions;

• Would have similar cost (within 20 percent) as currently available versions;

• Are less flammable;

• Are fully recyclable at end of life; and

• Would generate less GHG emissions during manufacturing.