Highlander NEX is already made with the innovative NEX polymer modified asphalt (previously referred to as Nexgen) and solar reflective granules. With the inclusion of 3M Smog-reducing granules, Highlander NEX is the most sustainably manufactured asphalt roofing shingle in the industry.

"Sustainability is at the core of our product design," said Fagan. “We strive to include innovative technologies that improve our environment in all aspects of our operations. Granules that help transform smog gases from the air are certainly in line with that mission,” he added.

Recently launched by the 3M Industrial Mineral Products Division, 3M Smog-reducing Granules help to remove smog pollution (nitrogen oxides or NOx) using roofing shingles. Integrated throughout a shingle’s surface, 3M’s roofing granules are designed with a specialized photocatalytic coating applied to the base mineral.

The specialized coating on the granule is activated by the sun’s UV rays, while blending inconspicuously into various shingle color combinations. When sunlight hits the shingles containing the smog-reducing granules, radicals are generated and transform nitrogen oxide gases into water-soluble ions improving air quality. This smart solution for pollution mitigation can help communities contribute toward their NOx emission reduction efforts.

The Highlander NEX shingle additionally features 3M Cool roofing granules. These granules reflect solar rays to cool the roof and home. The Highlander NEX introductory color offerings will include Weathered Wood, Natural Wood, Heather, Silverwood and Sienna Blend.