Looping in Sustainability
Making informed materials choices that support the health of people and the planet
Sponsored by Construction Specialties | By Andrew A. Hunt
This webinar is part of the Mastering Movement Academy
This course will introduce the student to concepts and tools that will help them consider the total impact of their material selections. These include the five “impact areas” the AIA defines in the organization’s Materials Pledge. Circularity – the idea of circularity – a methodology to reduce overconsumption and conserve natural resources—is a key component of these impact areas and will be examined in detail.
An explanation of mindful MATERIALs Common Materials Framework (CMF), the industry's first common language for sustainable building materials will be included. The CMF is a framework that organizes eco-labels and certifications and connects these to five impact areas, making it easier for practitioners to make informed choices and how these choices have an impact. Finally, the course will present practical examples of exemplary products and materials and how they can be assessed using this framework.
Founded in 1948, Construction Specialties (CS) is a specialty building products manufacturer. CS provides solutions to complex challenges architects, designers, building owners, facility managers, and contractors face every day. Since inventing the first extruded louver, CS has become a global leader in interior wall protection, impact-resistant doors, entrance mats & grids, expansion joint covers, architectural louvers & grilles, sun controls, explosion & pressure relief vents, cubicle curtains & tracks and stairs, awnings & balconies. CS draws upon extensive expertise to design high-quality products—many of which are Cradle to Cradle Certified™ Products Program. For more information please visit: c-sgroup.com
Originally published in Architectural Record
Originally published in September 2024
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Define circularity in the context of building products and materials and explain why it’s important to consider product impacts at all life cycle phases, from extraction to end of life.
- Enumerate the five “impact areas” defined in the AIA Materials Pledge and why they should be considered for every product choice.
- Explain how design practitioners can use transparency documents and eco-certifications like EPDs, and Cradle to Cradle, to select products and materials that address multiple aspects of sustainability.
- Describe the Common Materials Framework and how it will streamline materials vetting for practitioners.
- Explain how design practitioners can reduce embodied and occupied carbon levels through design and material specification
