Optimizing Building Insulation Thickness for Environmental Sustainability

Energy consumption is steadily increasing worldwide, and climate change is increasing pressure to improve efficiency in the built environment. One of the best methods for drastically lowering heating needs and emissions is to insulate exterior walls. Nevertheless, choosing the optimal insulation thickness is complex, as it depends on climatic factors, material thermal performance, and cost. The study investigates the best external wall insulation in two Uzbekistan regions, Jizzakh and Kashkadarya, using basalt fibre as the reference insulation material. The analysis combines the heating degree-day approach and a life-cycle cost approach, and assesses CO2 and SO2 emissions from natural gas and coal as heating fuels. Findings indicate that the colder climate in Jizzakh requires a slightly thicker layer of insulation than in Kashkadarya, and that natural gas always produces fewer emissions than coal. Besides the lower operational cost, the maximised insulation thickness offers enormous environmental advantages through alleviation of greenhouse effect and acidifying emissions. These results indicate that well-planned insulation initiatives are a cost-effective approach to energy conservation, improved environmental outcomes, and compliance with Uzbekistan’s national climate objectives and overall sustainability obligations.