GLASS

Glass is an integral part of modern life, utilized across a wide range of industries and applications. The Glass Manufacturing Industry Council (GMIC) serves as a unified voice for the thriving glass industry, facilitating cooperation, innovation, and sustainability.

GMIC represents various segments of glass manufacturing, including container, flat, fiber, and specialty glass producers. They offer comprehensive services to their members, such as government advocacy, promotion of glass usage, coordination of technical initiatives, education, training, workforce development, and strategies to meet sustainability demands.

The flat glass manufacturing process begins with melting sand and other materials in a furnace to create a liquid, which is then formed into desired thicknesses. The hardened glass is cut to size according to customer specifications. Flat glass manufacturers cater to diverse applications, considering factors like functionality and design requirements.

Key flat glass companies in the US include prominent names like Owens Corning, a leading producer of insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composites. They have a strong commitment to sustainability through material innovation.

In January 2023, the Federal Trade Commission ordered Instant Brands, the manufacturer of Pyrex-brand products, to pay a monetary judgment for falsely claiming that certain measuring cups made in China were "Made in US." This highlights the importance of truthful origin claims in the industry.

Glass manufacturers continuously explore avenues to enhance sustainability, such as electric melting processes and decarbonization initiatives.