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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Unmilled Timber Frames Go High Tech, Replacing Steel
January 4, 2017Product Review
Keep the beauty of round logs, and get more strength from an engineered wood structure, promises Wisconsin-based company WholeTrees.
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A Tour of Cool Products from Greenbuild 2016
November 7, 2016Product Review
These products from Greenbuild 2016 expo floor save water, use wood in innovative ways, and protect buildings and materials from the elements
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Building Products Matter Even More Than We Thought
September 7, 2016Op-Ed
Operational energy use is critical, but materials might be an even bigger part of the solution to climate change and other pressing environmental issues.
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Bark Cladding Is First Cradle to Cradle Platinum Product
August 4, 2016News Brief
C2C Platinum certification sets a very high bar for sustainability. A decade in, Bark House shingles are the first product to make the grade.
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Living Product Challenge Logs First Certifications
June 6, 2016News Analysis
Though only a year old, LPC has its first two entry-level certifications: Owens Corning insulation and Sirewall rammed earth.
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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.
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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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The 12 Product Rules
March 3, 2016Infographic
These 12 product rules provide a simple approach to selecting better, healthier, and more environmentally responsible building products and materials.
