mindful MATERIALS: Human Health

Some chemicals used in our buildings can harm factory employees, people in fenceline communities, and jobsite workers. After construction, many types of products can benefit occupants—or put them at risk. Our resources help you leverage ingredient knowledge, wellness insights, and certain certifications for human health-focused decision making. By preferring products that support and foster life throughout their life cycles, practitioners drive efforts to eliminate the use of hazardous substances.

mindful MATERIALS: Human Health

Deep Dives

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

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  • How to Access the Full Power of Biophilia

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     People wither physically and mentally without nature. Biophilic design is a remedy and a foundation for regenerative design all at the same time.

  • Is Using Smart Glass Smart?

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

  • Keeping PFAS Forever Chemicals out of Building Products

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    Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been linked to negative health and environmental impacts. Getting them out of our building products is going to require work.

  • Build Green on a Budget: Lessons from Affordable Housing

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    Sustainability doesn’t have to cost more—and no one knows that better than affordable housing experts. But every project type can benefit from these 12 cost-reducing ideas that support people and the planet.

Quick Takes

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

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Product Guidance

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

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  • 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

  • Board Insulation

    Product Guide

    These insulation products and thermal breaks provide superior thermal performance and avoid common chemical hazards.

  • Ceiling Systems

    Product Guide

    Low-emitting acoustical and specialty ceiling systems made from sustainably sourced materials

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.

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Learning Resources

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

Just For Fun

Something weird happens every April at BuildingGreen...

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