OVERVIEW
We rarely think about our building products beyond their immediate impact on a building or its indoor air quality. But we should.
How much energy does it take to make a product? What are the raw materials? How much does the product contribute to global warming?
These questions are not addressed by most green product programs, but the resources found here look at products and materials throughout their life cycles, including through:
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life-cycle assessments
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environmental product declarations
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carbon accounting
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embodied energy
With additional knowledge, you will have a more nuanced view of why products are environmentally sustainable and how they can be improved in the future.
IN-DEPTH
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Carbon Offsets Get Oversight
March 31, 2008News Analysis
Carbon offsets have become a popular way to fight climate change, but the market for them has been plagued by doubts about integrity. A new certification program as well attention from federal regulators may help to address key concerns.
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New Chemical to Reduce Climate Impact of Foam Insulation
November 29, 2011News Analysis
New blowing agents will reduce the global warming potential of SPF, XPS, and the rigid polyurethane foam used in appliances.
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Low Climate Impact of New Blowing Agents Confirmed
March 3, 2014News Analysis
The IPCC has deemed Honeywell’s Solstice Liquid Blowing Agent, an HFO that can be used to produce insulation, to have extremely low global warming potential.
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NYC Carbon Challenge Makes Headway in the Private Sector
August 3, 2014News Analysis
With projects meeting New York’s steep goal of 30% less carbon ahead of schedule, the city calls on even more buildings to take on the challenge.
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Opinion: How EPDs Are Improving Our Products—A Manufacturer’s Perspective
August 3, 2015Op-Ed
Some manufacturers wonder if EPDs are worth the effort. Yes—and the business case is stronger than the marketing case.
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Rubber Flooring: A Good Use for Old Car Tires?
February 9, 2016News Analysis
Rubber flooring is getting greener overall, but tire-derived products are still an iffy proposition.
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EPD Quick-Start Guide: 5 Easy Steps
November 5, 2015Infographic
Use these tips to get what you need from an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), fast.
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Building Materials and the Time Value of Carbon
April 4, 2016Op-Ed
When you save matters. What you build matters. Here’s why we need to build well and rebuild better.
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Trade Group Releases EPD for Light-Gauge Steel Framing
April 4, 2016News Brief
The industry-wide environmental product declaration covers cold-formed structural steel, paving the way for potential LEED v4 credits.
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Study Vets Materials for Entire Wall Assemblies
June 1, 2016News Brief
When you look at the whole assembly, it can change how you see the materials. Here XPS and fiberglass come out ahead, and SPF behind.
