Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic that has the ability to absorb heat, which means it is the preferred option for many greenhouses, as well as being used in homes for its energy efficiency, lightweight nature and overall strength. The main difference between polycarbonate and other sheeting is that polycarbonate can be heated to its melting point, cooled and then recycled, meaning it doesn’t burn like a thermoset plastic would. This makes it a very flexible building material in terms of its overall carbon footprint as it can be melted down and remolded for further use.