A global mission for energy efficiency

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Explore the worldwide impact of cool roofs and their role in reducing energy costs.   

In a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth sat down with James Thomas, CEO of Topps Products, to discuss the evolution of cool roof technology and its global impact. During their conversation, James shared insights into the company's journey and commitment to sustainability, particularly through its collaboration with the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC). 

James expressed the significance of cool roofs in energy efficiency, stating the benefits beyond simple cost savings. "Cool roofs do matter," he said, recounting a personal experience that solidified his belief in the technology. “We had three air conditioner units in this 40-foot container unit. When we coated five sides of this container, we realized it started freezing on the inside. So, instead of using those three air conditioner units, we went down to one.” This anecdote demonstrates the tangible impact of cool roofs on energy consumption and the broader potential for energy savings. 

Beyond individual projects, James discussed Topps’ global outreach, including initiatives in extreme climates such as the research stations in Antarctica and hot regions like Dubai and Saudi Arabia. "Topps has been around. It's been tried, it's been proven," James said, representing the durability and reliability of their products in diverse environments. He also shared an innovative community project in Vietnam, where the application of cool roof coatings to an outdoor market not only made the environment more comfortable for vendors and shoppers but also preserved the freshness of the produce. 

James is not just focused on the present; he has big plans for the future of cool roofing, including expanding into related areas such as cool pavements and roads to further mitigate urban heat islands and reduce global CO2 emissions. He envisions a future where cool roofs and related technologies become the standard in urban planning, not just in the U.S., but worldwide. 

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about Topps Products’ journey and how cool roofs are shaping a more sustainable future!