mindful MATERIALS: Climate Health

mindful MATERIALS, Inc

Embodied carbon is an increasingly urgent consideration: massive emissions from manufacturing concrete, steel, foam, gypsum board, and other building products are happening right now. Some products save energy and carbon during building operation. Our resources help you minimize the use of the worst offenders and support climate health by preferring products that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and sequester more carbon than emitted.

mindful MATERIALS: Climate Health

Deep Dives

Get up to speed on complex topics. You can also earn CEUs and download PDF Spotlight Reports.


Quick Takes

Jump straight to the essentials with these short explanations of green building concepts.


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  • The 12 Product Rules

    Infographic

    These 12 product rules provide a simple approach to selecting better, healthier, and more environmentally responsible building products and materials.

  • Hemp: A Durable, Low-Carbon Building Material

    Explainer

    This rapidly renewable material is excellent for textiles and non-structural concrete. (And no, it will not get you high.)

  • Glazing Performance Metrics

    Explainer

    A few key metrics are important for understanding the thermal performance of glazing units used in curtainwalls and windows.

  • Neutralizing the Downsides of Concrete

    Explainer

     Concrete is a durable and necessary building material, but its carbon footprint is huge. Here’s a rundown of concrete’s tradeoffs and some solutions. 

Product Guidance

Unbiased information from our product experts helps you separate green from greenwash.


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  • Tile

    Product Guide

    Porcelain tiles that meet third-party environmental standards, and BPA-free adhesives

  • Concrete

    Product Guide

    Producing cement, the primary ingredient in concrete, generates significant amounts of CO2, mercury, and other pollutants, so maximizing its performance and finding substitutes when possible can improve the environmental footprint of a building.

  • Blanket and Batt Insulation

    Product Guide

    Batts and aerogel blankets with high recycled content, reduced air-quality concerns, or superior performance

  • Blown Insulation

    Product Guide

    Blown-in products with high recycled content, superior energy performance, and low-toxicity ingredients

In The News

We break news down to the essentials and provide expert analysis.


Perspective

Thought-provoking opinions from the most trusted minds in sustainability.


Learning Resources

Syllabus supplements and CEU content, with automatic reporting for AIA and GBCI.


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  • LEED and WELL Product Labels: A Guide and Analysis

    Feature

    LEED and WELL encourage a lot of different programs for green products. Learn the essentials—plus what’s behind the labels.

  • LEED and WELL Product Labels: A Guide and Analysis

    Spotlight Report

    What’s up with all the programs encouraged by LEED and WELL? Learn the essentials—plus what’s behind the labels.

  • Is Using Smart Glass Smart?

    Feature

    Electrochromic glazing holds the promise of less glare and better energy efficiency with fewer attachments. The reality is much more complicated.

  • Smart Glass- A Panel Discussion

    Webcast

    Arm yourself with knowledge about the potential uses and drawbacks of smart glass, and consider whether the products have improved enough to be used in your next project!

Just For Fun

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