Most architects and other designers are unaware of the relationship between the building materials they choose and the impact of those building materials on human health. However, there is growing evidence that health risks can arise from unintended exposure to the chemicals that are used to create building products. Understanding high priority hazards that can be avoided through informed choice is critical to creating healthier buildings for occupants and to promoting environmental justice in communities. Our panel will share lessons-learned and instructive take-aways to help participants succeed in selecting and specifying safer materials for their clients. We will explore the highly collaborative nature of this type of work, and how each discipline contributes unique and helpful resources.

Participants:

Rachel Berman, Sustainability Program Manager, MechoSystems

Catherine Bobenhausen, Senior Consultant, Colden Corporation

Susan Kaplan, Director of Specifications and Sustainability, HLW

Brian Kaplan, Associate Director, Skidmore Owings & Merrill LLP

Alison Mears, Director, Healthy Materials Lab at Parsons School of Design

Tim Conway, Vice President Sustainability, Shaw Contract