Healthy Affordable Housing Case Studies

The Rose

Minneapolis, MN May - December 2015

The Rose is a mixed-income housing project in Minneapolis developed by Aeon and Hope Community. Investigating this project offers an introduction to understanding the processes and challenges of designing and building affordable, sustainable housing. It is particularly interesting to explore such a development and connect with key stakeholders of the project as all parties have demonstrated an intention to prove that sustainable, net-zero-ready, healthier housing development can be built affordably. Such a common motivation between stakeholders in the housing development industry is timely and offers a momentum to work together towards tools, mechanisms, and propositions to make the process more transparent, practical, affordable, and replicable, and thus, more easily accessible to other housing developers. The transparency and commitment to share information on promising practices from the developers, architects, contractor and consultants demonstrates a real desire to work together for positive change, moving beyond competition towards collaboration in the affordable housing sector. Our hope is that this report is a resource for the organizations involved in the building of The Rose and an aid to widely disseminate and replicate better building practices.

Dissecting the challenges of specific moments, key decisions, and negotiations brings to light the road to innovation for the creation of more sustainable, healthier buildings. The network of complex relations, partnerships and decision-making processes existing between National and State policy, Developer, Architect, Contractor, Manufacturer and local communities is an important characteristic of the project.

Examining The Rose as a pilot project also enables an understanding of the current benchmarks for sustainable and affordable developments. In understanding the guidelines of the two certifications the development subscribed to, the Living Building Challenge (LBC) and Enterprise Green Communities Certification (EGCC) allows for a critical analysis of the implementability and replicability of their requirements in relation to human health and affordability.

This case study uses a particular lens on the specification and procurement process of the interior building products of the development in order to uncover the relationship between affordability and the challenges of purchasing less toxic construction products. This research was carried out from May to November 2015, and includes excerpts from interviews carried out with numerous stakeholders who participated in this development. MSR Design and their documentation of the process and Aeon’s expertise in affordable housing development were key resources to this research. The Rose opened in October 2015 and a post-occupancy survey and analysis has been set up to be completed and ongoing in the coming years.

The Rose

16 products

How to Use This List

About Our Collections

The goal of our collections is to help promote transparency in the material ingredients of building products by fostering knowledge and awareness of products and materials for which life-cycle information is available, and that have environmentally, economically, and socially preferable life-cycle impacts.

Keep an eye out for the following symbols:

A Healthier Affordable Building Product

Products with the designation of "Healthier & Affordable" were specified and installed in at least one of our Case Studies of healthier affordable housing.

Available at the Donghia healthier Materials Library

The Donghia healthier Materials Library library is open to Parsons student and faculty. Learn more about access and opening hours here.

Low Embodied Carbon

“Embodied Carbon” is the total amount of carbon emitted during the process of making a material

New Product

This product has been added to the collection within the past six months.

Ingredient Disclosures

There are several ways of evaluating a material’s health that we include with product information. Disclosures are reports by manufacturers about product ingredients, impacts, or other attributes.

Key Disclosures include:

Health Product Declaration (HPD)

A voluntary technical specification for reporting information on product contents and associated health information, intended to be the health-analogue to Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).

Declare Label

Declare is a transparency platform and product database that answers three questions:
1. Where does a product come from?
2. What is it made of?
3. Where does it go at the end of its life?

Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)

A standardized format for communicating the environmental effects associated with a product’s raw materials extraction, energy use, chemical makeup, waste generation, and emissions to air, soil, and water.

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

A reporting format that provides basic information about a material’s chemical ingredients, the potential safety hazards to installers, and recommended practices for installation.

Other

Learn More

Category	Sub-category	Manufacturer	Product	Ingredient Disclosures
Dimensional Surface	Plywood	Columbia Forest Products	PureBond Hardwood Plywood	HPD Declare EPD SDS	PureBond Hardwood Plywood A Healthier Affordable Building Product Available At the Donghia Materials Library Columbia Forest Product's PureBond hardwood plywood is formaldehyde-free, and is instead made with a soy-based binder. This North American-made product is also cost-competitive with standard plywood products, making it a fantastic healthier alternative. Category Dimensional Surface, Plywood Manufacturer Columbia Forest Products Product Website Material composition * Wood Dust 95.65%, Other components below the reportable levels, (the specific chemical identity and/or percentage of composition has been held withheld as a trade secret) <1% *As reported by manufacturer and product SDS AVAILABLE SIZING 2’x 4’, 2’x 8’, 4’x 8’, 4’x 10’ Panels - available in standard thickness COLORS Variety of wood species CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other FSC Certification Rainforest Alliance Certification Additional Documents Techdata Pure Bond Hardwood Plywood Columbia Forest Last Updated September 26, 2016 Download data sheet
Dimensional Surface	Plywood	Columbia Forest Products	PureBond Classic Core® Plywood	HPD Declare EPD SDS	PureBond Classic Core® Plywood A Healthier Affordable Building Product Available At the Donghia Materials Library Classic Core® is a combination core panel construction where cross bands of thin MDF are utilized in place of veneer cross bands. Classic Core® can be manufactured with bonded crossbands which do not contain added formaldehyde. PureBond Classic Core® may contribute to LEED® 2009 credit IEQ 4.4 and conforms to CARB II exempt emission requirements called for in LEED V4. It contains 95% Biobased Content according to Bioprefered.gov. Category Dimensional Surface, Plywood Manufacturer Columbia Forest Products Product Website Material composition * Wood Dust 98%, Polymerized Methylenediphenyl-Diisocyanate <10% *As reported by manufacturer and product SDS AVAILABLE SIZING 4’x 8’, 4’x 10’ Panels - 1/2”, 5/8”, 3/4”, 1” and 1-1/4” thickness COLORS Variety of wood species CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other FSC Certification Rainforest Alliance Certification Additional Documents Techdata Pure Bond Classic Core Plywood Columbia Forest Last Updated September 26, 2016 Download data sheet
Drywall	Gypsum	National Gypsum Company	Gold Bond Gypsum Board	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Gold Bond Gypsum Board A Healthier Affordable Building Product Gold Bond’s Gypsum Board panels are a lightweight and cost-effective wall material. Their gypsum core (which is naturally fire resistant) is encased in 100% recycled paper on the face and back sides. This product is also Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it meets strict standards for VOC and Formaldehyde emissions. Category Drywall, Gypsum Manufacturer National Gypsum Company Product Website Material composition * Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate (Gypsum) 85-95%, Cellulose (Paper Fiber) 5-15%, may contain Mixture-Calcium, Aluminum Silicates, Amorphous Silica <1% *As reported by manufacturer and product SDS AVAILABLE SIZING 4’ x 6’ up to 16’ - available in 1/4”, 3/8” and 1/2” thickness COLORS White and gray paper face CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD \| Gold Additional Documents Techdata Gold Bond Gypsum Board National Gypsum Last Updated September 26, 2016 Download data sheet
Drywall	Gypsum	National Gypsum Company	Gold Bond XP Gypsum Board	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Gold Bond XP Gypsum Board A Healthier Affordable Building Product Gold Bond XP Gypsum Board is the National Gypsum Company’s moisture and mold resistant product. Sporgard™ is added to the gypsum core, which is encased in 100% recycled, mold and mildew resistant paper on either side. This product is also Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it meets strict standards for VOC and formaldehyde emissions. Category Drywall, Gypsum Manufacturer National Gypsum Company Product Website Material composition * Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate (Gypsum) >85%, Cellulose (Paper Fiber) <10% *As reported by manufacturer and product SDS AVAILABLE SIZING 4’ x 6’ up to 16’ - available in 1/4”, 3/8” and 1/2” thickness COLORS White and purple paper face CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD \| Gold Last Updated September 26, 2016 Download data sheet
Dimensional Surface	Engineered Stone	DuPont	Corian	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Corian A Healthier Affordable Building Product Available At the Donghia Materials Library Corian is an acrylic solid surface material, created by DuPont. Its long lifecycle and the opportunity for repair make Corian a cost-effective option and help reduce waste. The pigments used are also free of heavy metals, toxic, and carcinogenic ingredients. Category Dimensional Surface, Engineered Stone Manufacturer DuPont Product Website Material composition * Aluminum Trihydroxide 55-66%, Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) 34-45%, Methyl Methacrylate <1%, Titanium Dioxide 0-3%, Iron Oxide Black 0-3%, Carbon Black <1%, Proprietary Colorants <1% *As reported by manufacturer and product Declare label AVAILABLE SIZING 44”x 30”x1/2” - Selected colors may include additional dimensional options COLORS Available in a variety of colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD \| Certified (standard) GREENGUARD \| Gold NSF/ANSI 51 Certification Additional Documents Techdata Corian Dupont Last Updated September 26, 2016 Download data sheet
Dimensional Surface	Solid Stone	Coldspring	Granite Countertop	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Granite Countertop A Healthier Affordable Building Product Coldspring Granite Countertops are made from 100% natural granite. Stone is one of the most durable materials that you can use for any application - when specified and detailed correctly, these countertops can last for hundreds of years. Their long life results in granite countertops’ very low embodied energy levels. Coldspring is also committed to sustainable manufacturing practices that maximize the utilization of resources while minimizing energy use. Category Dimensional Surface, Solid Stone Manufacturer Coldspring Product Website Material composition * Granite 100% *As reported by manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING Custom Sizes - available in 3/4” thickness COLORS Available in a variety of granite types CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Declare \| Red List Free NSF/ANSI 51 Certification Additional Documents Cs Technical Data Sheet Slab Last Updated September 26, 2016 Download data sheet
Tile	Porcelain	Virginia Tile Company	Linen Collection	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Linen Collection A Healthier Affordable Building Product Virginia Tile’s Linen Collection (formerly sold by RBC Tile & Stone as the Back Bay Tweed Collection) is a color-body porcelain tile that is suitable for all residential applications as well as medium commercial and light institutional applications. The tiles’ surface texture lends a softness, creating a fabric-like finish. Category Tile, Porcelain Manufacturer Virginia Tile Company Product Website Material composition * Silicon and Aluminon Oxide, Magnesium Oxide, Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Oxide, Iron Oxide, Potassium Oxide, Sodium Oxide *As reported by manufacturer and product SDS AVAILABLE SIZING 2”x 2” up to 24”x 24” Tiles COLORS Available in Graphite, Taupe, and White CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Last Updated September 23, 2016 Download data sheet
Tile	Porcelain	Daltile	Esta Villa	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Esta Villa A Healthier Affordable Building Product Available At the Donghia Materials Library Esta Villa is a line of porcelain tiles that are designed to look like Rapolano Italian stone. The tiles come in three natural stone color options, all of which have wide graphic variations for a realistic look. This product is made in the U.S. and contains both post-consumer and pre-consumer recycled material. Per Daltile's production line-specific EPDs, this tile product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. Category Tile, Porcelain Manufacturer Daltile Product Website Material composition * Crystalline Silica as Quartz 0-30%, Clays 20-55%, Nepheline Syenite 0-50%, Tale 0-40%, Feldspar 0-15%, Biotite 0-5% *As reported by manufacturer and product SDS AVAILABLE SIZING 18”x 18”, 12”x 24”, 12”x 12” Tiles COLORS Available in 3 standard colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Additional Documents Techdata Esta Villa Daltile Last Updated April 16, 2021 Download data sheet
Resilient	Linoleum	Forbo Flooring Systems	Marmoleum Modular	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Marmoleum Modular A Healthier Affordable Building Product Available At the Donghia Materials Library Low-Embodied Carbon Material Marmoleum Modular tiles are made from natural materials. The product has a low carbon footprint, and is free from toxic materials such as phthalates. The modular tiles allow you to mix and match to design a unique floor surface. Per Forbo's product-specific EPDs, these Marmoleum flooring system meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. It contains 100% Biobased Content according to Bioprefered.gov. Category Resilient, Linoleum Manufacturer Forbo Flooring Systems Product Website Material composition * Linseed Oil 20%, Gum Rosin 2%, Tall Oil 6%, Wood Flour 31%, Calcium Carbonate 8%, Reused Marmoleum 23 %, Titanium Dioxide 3%, Various other pigments 1%, Polyester 5%, Lacquer 1% *As reported by manufacturer and product EPD AVAILABLE SIZING 9.8”x 9.8”, 9.8”x 19.69” and 19.69”x 19.69” Tiles COLORS Available in a variety of colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Declare \| Red List Free Additional Documents Techdata Marmoleum Forbo Last Updated September 23, 2016 Download data sheet
Resilient	Limestone	Armstrong Flooring	Biobased Tiles	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Biobased Tiles A Healthier Affordable Building Product Armstrong's Striations and Migrations BBT (BioBased Tiles) are an alternative to PVC flooring with few ingredients, the majority being Limestone. Around 2% of the bio-based Polyester Resin is renewable corn material. Migrations and Striations are designed for heavy-traffic corridors in K-12 and higher education buildings, retail spaces, and corporations. Note: the product's HPD is self-declared. Category Resilient, Limestone Manufacturer Armstrong Flooring Product Website Material composition * Calcium Carbonate 85-88%, Bio-based Polyester Resin 11-14%, Titanium Dioxide 0.5%, Colored Pigments <0.1% *As reported by manufacturer and product EPD AVAILABLE SIZING 12”x 12” and 12”x 24” Tiles COLORS Available in a variety of colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other FloorScore NSF/ANSI 51 Certification Additional Documents Techdata Striations Armstrong Last Updated September 23, 2016 Download data sheet
Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation	Fiberglass	Knauf Insulation	EcoBatt	HPD Declare EPD SDS	EcoBatt Low-Embodied Carbon Material EcoBatt Insulation is free of formaldehyde, acrylics, and artificial colors. This insulation combines sand, post-consumer recycled bottle glass, and Knauf’s ECOSE Technology. It can be used for walls, ceilings, sound control, floors, attics, and mid-floor applications. This product is Declare Red List Free. It has also achieved a Greenguard Gold Certification, which ensures that it meets strict standards for VOC emissions. Per EPD, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon - thanks in large part to its use of recycled materials. Knauf currently has 27 production across the US, Europe, and the Middle East. When specifying this product be sure to consider the distance it will travel to your site. Category Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation, Fiberglass Manufacturer Knauf Insulation Product Website Material composition * Glass Fibers from recycled glass bottles 48%, Sand 13%, Borax 7%, Soda Ash 4%, Quicklime 3%, Manganese Dioxide <1%, Sugars 4%, Ammonia <1%, Ammonium Sulfate <1%, Silane <1%, Kraft/Asphalt Facing 19% *As reported by manufacturer and product EPD AVAILABLE SIZING Available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses for wood and metal framing COLORS Taupe CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD \| Gold Declare \| Red List Free Additional Documents Techdata Eco Batt Knauf Last Updated September 21, 2016 Download data sheet
Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation	Mineral Fiber	Roxul	Roxul Safe	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Roxul Safe A Healthier Affordable Building Product Available At the Donghia Materials Library Low-Embodied Carbon Material Safe is a batt insulation made from mineral wool that provides acoustic dampening and is non-combustible. Safe is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it meets strict requirements for VOC and formaldehyde emissions. This product meets HML low embodied carbon standards per Rockwool's EPD for its stone wool insulation. Production facilities are located in the US and Canada. For shorter transportation, the North American Market is therefore preferable. Rockwool's Ontario location uses the highest amount of recycled material of any of its facilities. NOTE: This product contains phenol formaldehyde. According to the manufacturer: "Phenol formaldehyde is allowed in rigid mineral wool insulation for exterior applications (such as rain screen assemblies or foundation insulation). While rigid mineral wool insulation does contain some formaldehyde, most of the formaldehyde is eliminated in the production process through a chemical reaction and high heat. Rigid mineral wool insulation installed on the exterior of the building possess less risk to humans and ecosystem than rigid foam insulation products, which almost always contain HFRs and use blowing agents with high global warming potential." Category Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation, Mineral Fiber Manufacturer Roxul Product Website Material composition Stone Wool Biosoluble 95-100%, Syrups Hydrolyzed Starch 1-2%, Phenolic Formaldehyde Binder 0-1%, Urea Binder 0-1% *As reported by manufacturer and product SDS AVAILABLE SIZING Available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses for wood and metal framing COLORS Taupe CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD \| Gold Additional Documents Techdata Mineral Wool Roxul Last Updated September 21, 2016 Download data sheet
Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation	Fiberglass	Knauf Insulation	Jet Stream Ultra	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Jet Stream Ultra A Healthier Affordable Building Product Available At the Donghia Materials Library Low-Embodied Carbon Material Knauf Insulation Jet Stream ULTRA is an unbonded, fibrous glass blowing insulation that is designed to be used in attics or with the BIBS system (Blown-in-Blanket System). This product is Declare Red List Free, and meets the strict VOC emission standards for the Greenguard Gold Certification. Additionally, it is made with over 60% post-consumer recycled glass (cullet) content. Per Knauf's product-specific EPD, Jet Stream Ultra meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. Knauf currently has 27 production across the US, Europe, and the Middle East. When specifying this product be sure to consider the distance it will travel to your site. Category Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation, Fiberglass Manufacturer Knauf Insulation Product Website Material composition * Post Consumer Cullet 59.3%, Sand 17.3%, Borax 9.2%, Soda Ash 5.1%, Quicklime 3.7%, in-house cullet 2.5% *As reported by manufacturer and product EPD AVAILABLE SIZING 32 lb Package COLORS White CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Declare \| Red List Free GREENGUARD \| Gold Additional Documents Techdata Jet Stream Ultra Knauf Last Updated September 21, 2016 Download data sheet
Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation	Cellulose	Insolution Manufacturing	Polar Barrier Loose Fill	HPD Declare EPD SDS	Polar Barrier Loose Fill Polar Barrier’s Loose Fill insulation is manufactured using 100% recycled paper. Primarily intended for use in walls and attics, this insulation provides superior sound control, fire protection, and energy savings compared to fiberglass. The production of Polar Barrier Loose Fill also uses up to 10 times less embodied energy than fiberglass does, and its reliance on recycled materials diverts waste from landfills. Category Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation, Cellulose Manufacturer Insolution Manufacturing Product Website Material composition Ammonium Sulfate 0-15%, Boric Acid 0-15%, Wheat Starch 0-5%, Non-hazardous Dust Control Agent 0-1%, Cellulose Particles (percentage not disclosed) AVAILABLE SIZING 30.0 lbs package COLORS White CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Additional Documents Techdata Loose Fill Polar Barrier Last Updated September 21, 2016 Download data sheet
Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation	Denim	Bonded Logic	UltraTouch	HPD Declare EPD SDS	UltraTouch UltraTouch Denim Insulation is an alternative to traditional fiberglass batt insulation that is free of VOCs and other chemical irritants. This product contains 80% post-consumer recycled denim, and provides excellent sound absorption and thermal insulation. Category Fibrous, Cellulosic, & Granular Insulation, Denim Manufacturer Bonded Logic Product Website Material composition * Recycled Fiber 80%, Binder Fiber, Ammonium Sulfate, Boric Acid (undisclosed %) *As reported by manufacturer and product SDS AVAILABLE SIZING Available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses for wood and metal framing COLORS Blue CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Additional Documents Techdata Ultra Touch Bonded Logic Last Updated September 21, 2016 Download data sheet
Synthetic Paint	Acrylic Latex	Sherwin Williams	ProMar© 200 Zero VOC	HPD Declare EPD SDS	ProMar© 200 Zero VOC A Healthier Affordable Building Product Available At the Donghia Materials Library Low-Embodied Carbon Material Sherwin William's ProMar© 200 line of interior latex paint is free of VOCs. This product has a GREENGUARD Gold Certification for low chemical emissions. It contains 33% Biobased Content according to Bioprefered.gov Titanium Dioxide is being used for pigmenting, the whiter the pigment, the more titanium dioxide. *Note: Product contains antimicrobial chemicals which are are associated with developmental, hormonal, and reproductive problems. sixclasses.org/videos/antimicrobials Category Synthetic Paint, Acrylic Latex Manufacturer Sherwin Williams Product Website Material composition Water 35-65%, Primary Resin 10-20%, Titanium Dioxide 0-20%, Calcium Carbonate 0-25%, Other Resins 0-10%, Extender Pigments 0-5%, Coalescent 0-2%, Other Additives 0-5%, Thickener 0-1%, pH Modifier 0-1% *As reported by manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING Pint, quart or gallon COLORS Available in a variety of colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURES Health Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD \| Gold Additional Documents Techdata Pro Mar 200 Sherwin Williams Last Updated September 22, 2016 Download data sheet

Glossary

Affordable Housing

In general, housing for which the occupant(s) is/are paying no more than 30 percent of his or her income for gross housing costs, including utilities. Please note that some jurisdictions may define affordable housing based on other, locally determined criteria, and that this definition is intended solely as an approximate guideline or general rule of thumb.

Read more at Red List

allergen

Anything that causes an allergic reaction, such as pollen, dust mites, or animal dander (skin protein that flakes off).

Read more at CCCEH

antimicrobial

Antimicrobials are a class of chemicals used in many personal care and consumer products to kill or inhibit the growth of microbes. Antimicrobials of concern include halogenated aromatic compounds such as triclosan and triclocarban, nanosilver, and quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) such as benzalkonium chloride. These chemicals have biocidal properties when evaluated under lab conditions. However, there is little evidence supporting the benefits of antimicrobials in consumer products. Furthermore, common antimicrobials are toxic to aquatic life and are associated with adverse health impacts.

Read more at Red List

asthmagen

A substance that causes new cases of asthma.

Read more at USGBC

binder

A component of an adhesive composition that is primarily responsible for the adhesive forces that hold two bodies together. Binders in composite wood products are traditionally made from urea formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

Read more at Dictionary of Architecture and Construction

Bioaccumulation

Bioaccumulation is the increasing concentration of a toxic substance in a living organism as
it takes in contaminated air, water, or food because the substance is very slowly metabolized or
excreted.

Read more at USGBC

Bisphenol A (BPA)

Bisphenol A (BPA) is used to manufacture polycarbonate (clear, hard) plastics and epoxy resins. The plastics are used in many consumer products, such as drink bottles, DVDs, eyeglass lenses, electronics, car parts, and other products that must not break easily. Epoxy resins are used for lining food cans and water pipes, and for many sales receipts. Most recent testing has shown the largest health-related concern to be potential impacts on the brains, behavior, and prostate glands of fetuses, infants, and small children so most health organizations advise against the use of BPA for baby bottles and related products. BPA has also been found in breast milk.

Read more at Red List

Bisphenols (BPA, BPB, BPS)

Bisphenols are industrial chemicals that have been used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins since the 1960s. Polycarbonate plastics are often used in containers that store food and beverages, such as water bottles. Epoxy resins are used to coat the inside of metal products, such as food cans, bottle tops and water supply lines. Some research has shown that bisphenols can seep into food or beverages from containers that are made with them. Exposure to bisphenols is a concern because of possible health effects to the brain, behavior and prostate gland of fetuses, infants and children.

Read more at Red List

carbon farming

Carbon Farming is a new way of farming to sequestrate carbon in the soil. Possible ways can be adjustments on farm level - like applying fertilizers rich in carbon, reduced or no-tillage, or planting cover crops - to changes in the entire farming system - like enriched crop rotation or agroforestry.

carcinogen

A substance that can cause or contribute to cancer.

Read more at USGBC

cathode ray tube (CRT)

Vacuum tube, made primarily of glass, which constitutes the video display component of televisions and computer monitors. These tubes are generally hazardous for lead.

Read more at EPA

CDPH Standard Method (Standard Method, 01350 Standard)

CDPH Standard Method is the "Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers” published by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

Read more at HPD-C

chemical

A substance represented by a single Chemical Abstract Service Registry Number (CAS#).

Read more at HPD-C

Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) and Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene (CSPE)

Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) and Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene (CSPE) are Persistent Organic Pollutant Source Materials: due to their carbon-chlorine bases, these products contribute to the creation of dioxins and furans at different points in their life cycle (often manufacturing and/or disposal). According to the World Health Organization, dioxins are some of the most potent toxins known to humans, with no known safe limit for exposure and a strong propensity for bioaccumulation. In addition, dioxins are highly persistent in the environment. Similarly, furans accumulate in animal fat, concentrating as they travel up the food chain. Non-chlorinated polyethylene products are readily available in many product categories.

Read more at Red List

Chlorobenzene

Chlorobenzene is used primarily as a solvent, a degreaser for auto parts, and a chemical intermediary for making other chemicals, so exposures is primarily a risk to workers making or using it. Most exposures are through inhalation of fumes. Shortterm exposure can cause headaches, sleepiness, nausea, numbness, muscle spasms, and in extreme cases, unconsciousness. Chronic (long-term) exposure can cause increased signs of neurotoxicity (numbness, etc.) and irritation of the upper respiratory tract. In animals, chronic exposure has also caused kidney and liver damage. Chlorobenzene is broken down by sun and bacteria in the environment and does not accumulate in the food chain.

Read more at Red List

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

According to USEPA, the depletion of the Earth’s protective ozone layer by chlorofluorocarbons (or CFCs) is responsible for an increased incidence of skin cancer, cataracts, impairment of human immune systems, and damage to wildlife. CFCs have been banned from production in the United States since 1995.

Read more at Red List

Chloroprene (Neoprene)

Chloroprene is a Persistent Organic Pollutant Source Material. Due to its carbonchlorine base, it contributes to the creation of dioxins at different points in its life cycle (often manufacturing and/or disposal). According to the World Health Organization, dioxins are some of the most potent toxins known to humans, with no known safe limit for exposure and a strong propensity for bioaccumulation. In addition, dioxins are highly persistent in the environment.

Read more at Red List

Chromium VI

Although chromium is a naturally occurring element and chromium III (trivalent chrome) is an essential nutrient, chromium VI (hexavalent chrome) can cause serious health issues, especially for factory workers who can inhale or ingest it during manufacturing. There has been concern about it in drinking water and, lacking EPA maximum allowable levels, the State of California set a public health goal for it. Chromium VI is used primarily for chrome plating of metals for decorative or protective finishes, making stainless steel, leather tanning, anti-corrosive agents for paints, and in textile dyes and pigments. Long-term or high-level exposure through inhalation can cause nasal irritation and ulcers, breathing problems, and nasal and lung cancer in unprotected workers. Ingestion can cause anemia and/or stomach tumors. Skin contact can cause skin ulcers and allergic reactions.

Read more at Red List

constituent (Intentionally Used Substance)

An Intentionally Used Substance that is intended to be incorporated into the final material/mixture — that is, for which the performance characteristics (including cost reduction) are desired parts of the final material/mixture.

Read more at HPD-C

contents

A general umbrella term for everything in a product or part (homogenous materials and/or chemical substances).

Read more at HPD-C

dermal absorption

A route of exposure by which substances enter the body through the skin.

Read more at USGBC

dioxin

According to the World Health Organization, dioxins are some of the most potent toxins known to humans, with no known safe limit for exposure and a strong propensity for bioaccumulation. In addition, dioxins are highly persistent in the environment.

Read more at USGBC

Downcycling

The practice of recycling a material in such a way that much of its inherent value is degraded (e.g. recycling plastic into park benches) revealing poor design of a lifecycle and the related material flows.

embodied carbon (low embodied carbon)

Embodied carbon refers to the greenhouse gas emissions arising from the manufacturing, transportation, installation, maintenance, and disposal of building materials.

Embodied carbon is a significant percentage of global emissions and requires urgent action to address it.

Read more at USGBC

EPD (Environmental Product Declaration)

A standardized format for communicating the environmental effects associated with a product’s or system’s raw materials extraction, energy use, chemical makeup, waste generation, and emissions to air, soil, and water.

Read more at USGBC

exposure

Contact with a substance through inhalation, ingestion, or dermal absorption.

Read more at USGBC

exposure pathways

The way in which people are exposed to radiation or other contaminants. The three basic pathways are inhalation (contaminants are taken into the lungs), ingestion (contaminants are swallowed) and direct (external) exposure (contaminants cause damage from outside the body).

Read more at EPA

flue gas desulfurization gypsum (FGD gypsum, synthetic gypsum, pre-consumer recycled gypsum)

Pre-consumer recycled content (synthetic gypsum) is created from environmental control systems installed in the smokestacks of coal-fired power plants. These systems capture particles from coal burning as they travel through the smokestack or flue. This becomes Flue-Gas Desulfurization (FGD) gypsum. FGD in drywall results in the global distribution of mercury, a potent developmental and neurotoxic metal that persists in the environment, accumulates in the food chain, and is highly toxic. The very pollution that is being captured in the flue of the power plant is being released from the smokestacks of wallboard factories that use FGD residuals.

Read more at EPA

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

FSC is a global, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of responsible forest management worldwide. They certify wood products through their Chain-of-Custody Certification and their Forest Management Certification.

Read more at HPD-C

Halogenated Fire Retardants (HFRs)

Halogenated Fire Retardants (HFRs) are a broad class of flame retardants containing chlorine or bromine that have aroused concern due to their exponential accumulation in human beings in recent years. HFRs are persistent bioaccumulative toxins, meaning that they accumulate in organisms and the broader environment, often reaching alarmingly high concentrations as they travel up the food chain. In addition, certain halogenated products have shown evidence of harm to humans and other animal species. According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, for example, the toxicity endpoints of concern for Penta-PBDE include adverse effects on neurological development, reproduction, thyroid hormone disruption and possible liver toxicity.

Read more at Red List

hazard

The inherent capacity of a substance to cause an adverse effect to health or the environment. “Hazard” is not synonymous with “risk” and/or “exposure”.

Read more at HPD-C

health endpoint (Hazard Type)

An effect of exposure to a toxic chemical, such as carcinogenicity or reproductive toxicity. RSEI considers both cancer and non-cancer chronic human health endpoints in calculating toxicity weights.

Read more at HPD-C

HempLime

We use the term “HempLime” to describe the building material made of hemp hurd, lime powder and water. Many people call this “Hempcrete” but we feel that this term can be confusing because it sounds like a replacement for “concrete”. HempLime is not structural, and cannot replace concrete. It is primarily an insulation material which can be finished with stucco and plaster.

High-Touch Surfaces (High-Contact Surfaces)

Surfaces that are frequently touched by building users and occupants such as door knobs, hand rails and tables.

Read more at HPD-C

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are potent ozone-depleting compounds. While less destructive than the now-banned chlorofluorocarbons, HCFCs are targeted for gradual phase-out by the US EPA with a total ban going into effect in the year 2030. According to USEPA, the depletion of the Earth’s protective ozone layer is responsible for an increased incidence of skin cancer, cataracts, impairment of human immune systems, and damage to wildlife.

Read more at Red List

impurity

An unintended substance present in a material/mixture as manufactured that was not an intentionally used substance in the production of the material/mixture. It may originate from the starting materials or be the result of secondary or incomplete reactions during the manufacturing process. For example, a chemical substance as supplied in commerce that is 99.0% pure is a mixture of the pure chemical substance and 1.0% of impurities.

Read more at HPD-C

ingestion

A route of exposure by which substances enter the body through the mouth.

Read more at USGBC

inhalation

A route of exposure by which substances enter the body through the act
of breathing.

Read more at USGBC

intentionally used substance

Any chemical substance that is used in the production of the homogeneous material/mixture, whether or not it is intended to remain in the manufacturer’s finished product. This includes all substances used in production, whether used by the product manufacturer or by an upstream supplier.

Read more at HPD-C

Isocyanates

A class of highly reactive chemicals used in the manufacture of flexible and rigid foams, fibers, coatings, and elastomers.

Read more at USGBC

Lead

According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, the environmental levels of lead have increased more than 1000-fold over the last three centuries, due almost exclusively to human activities. Lead exposure is damaging to virtually every organ and system in the human body, but is particularly damaging to the brain and central nervous system—profoundly so for young children and developing fetuses. Lead exposure is correlated with decreased IQ and delayed learning in children; scientific research has identified no safe level of lead exposure, and effects are irreversible.

Read more at Red List

life cycle thinking

An informal thought process for considering all of a product’s impacts from cradle to grave

Read more at USGBC

Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)

A tax incentive intended to increase the availability of low-income housing. The program provides an income tax credit to owners of newly constructed or substantially rehabilitated low-income rental housing projects.

Read more at USGBC

mercury

According to the World Health Organization, mercury produces a suite of ill effects, including harm to the nervous, digestive and immune systems, and even death. WHO lists children and developing fetuses as especially vulnerable to damage from mercury. Mercury bioaccumulates in the environment, eventually reaching concentrations thousands of times more intense than ambient levels.

Read more at Red List

mold

Molds are microscopic organisms that play an important role in the breakdown of plant and animal matter. Outdoors, molds can be found in shady, damp areas, or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoor molds can grow on virtually any surface, as long as moisture, oxygen, and organic material are present. When molds are disturbed, they release tiny cells called spores into the surrounding air.

Read more at USGBC

nanomaterial

A substance intentionally engineered to achieve size-dependent properties and functions with one or more external dimensions or an internal structure measuring less than 100 nanometers.

Read more at HPD-C

neurotoxicant

A substance that can damage the central nervous system.

Read more at USGBC

no added formaldehyde (NAF)

The NAF standard for No Added Formaldehyde is currently the highest federal standard regulating formaldehyde emissions. NAF certifies that composite wood is free of resins made from urea formaldehyde or phenol formaldehyde, which have the potential to off-gas after installation and are known carcinogens. NAF certification originated with CARB, and has since been adopted by the EPA for the TSCA Title VI regulation.

Read more at EPA

optimization

The use of human health, environmental, and other product information by project teams to select preferable materials and products, and by manufacturers to improve materials and products

Read more at USGBC

pathogen

An infectious biological agent such as bacteria, virus and fungus that is capable of causing disease in its host.

Read more at EPA

Persistant Organic Pollutant (POP)

A chemical substance that persists in the environment, bioaccumulates through the food chain, and poses a risk of harming human health and the environment (adapted from the United Nations Environment Programme).

Read more at USGBC

Persistant, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic Substance (PBT)

A highly toxic, long-lasting substance that can build up in the food chain to levels that are harmful to human and ecosystem health (EPA PBT Chemical Program).

Read more at USGBC

pesticides

A general term that describes the chemical substances used to destroy or control insect or plant pests. Many pesticides are manufactured and do not occur naturally in the environment. Others are natural toxins that are extracted from plants and animals.

Read more at EPA

phthalates

Chemicals used to soften plastics in many consumer products, including children’s toys, plastic containers, and personal care products. Phthalates can seep out of these products, and studies have shown that phthalates can disrupt the endocrine system, which is the body’s system of regulating hormones.

Read more at CCCEH

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether (PBDE)

One of a class of bromine-containing organic chemicals used as ﬂame retardants.

Read more at USGBC

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

PCB manufacturing in the US stopped in 1977 but the compound is long-lasting in the environment (mostly in soils) around old manufacturing and disposal sites, in old electrical transformers and electrical devices, and in fish and their predators. PCBs make good coolants, lubricants, and insulators for electrical equipment of all kinds. They are known to cause cancer in animals and are probable human carcinogens, but exposure tends to be limited to people who worked in the electrical industry many years ago, lived close to manufacturing sites, and/or ate contaminated fish. Health effects also include acne-like skin conditions and neurobehavioral and immunological changes in children.

Read more at Red List

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)

Small particles of pollution that get into the air when fuel is burned. PAH are carcinogenic. They are generally inhaled and can also enter the body when eating charred or blackened food.

Read more at CCCEH

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC’s vinyl chloride monomer building block is a known human carcinogen, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. In addition, PVC is a Persistent Organic Pollutant Source Material. Due to its chlorine content, PVC often contains other Red List ingredients, such as cadmium, lead, and phthalates. The manufacture and disposal of PVC can result in the production of dioxins and disposal phases. Dioxins, specifically TCDD, accumulate in human and animal tissue and are associated with immune system impairment, damage to developing nervous systems, and damage to the endocrine and reproductive systems. TCDD is listed as a “known human carcinogen” by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Read more at Red List

Postconsumer Recycled Content (PostC)

Waste materials generated by households or by commercial, industrial and institutional facilities in their role as end-users of the product, which can no longer be used for their intended purpose.

Read more at HPD-C

precautionary principle

An approach to risk management that advocates measures to prevent harm when serious or irreversible damage is possible but scientiﬁc consensus is lacking.

Read more at USGBC

Preconsumer Recycled Content (PreC)

Post-industrial material diverted from the waste stream during a manufacturing process. Excluded from this category is re-utilization of materials such as scrap that are generated in a process and capable of being reclaimed within the same process.

Read more at HPD-C

Priority Hazard List

Authoritative chemical hazard list to be referenced when screening substances for hazard warnings, as compiled by the Health Product Declaration Collaborative. Selections are primarily based on criteria developed for the GreenScreen® for Safer Chemicals.

Read more at HPD-C

product

A finished good composed of homogeneous materials that are in turn made up of chemical substances. A product may be made of one or more homogeneous materials. A product may also be organized into parts, which are in turn made up of one or more homogenous materials. A product may also function as part of another product.

Read more at HPD-C

recycle

To collect and reprocess a material so it can be used again to make a new product. An example is collecting aluminum cans, melting them, and using the aluminum to make new cans or other products.

Read more at EPA

Recycling

Practice of recovering or diverting content from the solid waste stream, either during the manufacturing process (pre-consumer/post-industrial) or after consumer use (post-consumer). A material can technically be recycled at least once after its initial use phase. At a minimum, the material’s physical and mechanical properties allow it to be re-melted or size reduced and used as filler with similar materials.

Reproductive and Developmental Toxicant

A substance that damages fertility, sexual function, and normal prenatal or early childhood development.

Read more at USGBC

residual

An Intentionally Used Substance that may be present in the final material/mixture but is not intended as a constituent. For example, this may refer to substances included in a manufacturing process to aid processing, as well as inputs to a reaction process such as reagents, catalysts, monomers.

Read more at HPD-C

Restricted Substances List (RSL) (Red List, Priority Hazard List)

A list of substances that a given organization has determined to avoid based on regulation or evidence of potential human health or environmental harm.

Read more at USGBC

risk

The likelihood that a living organism will be harmed if exposed to a hazard.

Read more at USGBC

Semivolatile Organic Compound (SVOC)

A carbon-containing (organic) substance that volatilizes relatively slowly at typical ambient conditions.

Read more at USGBC

sensitization

The process of becoming allergic to a substance to which a person has been exposed. This process can occur before birth, during childhood, or in adulthood.

Read more at CCCEH

Short Chain Chlorinated Paraffins (SCCPs)

SCCPs are most commonly used as lubricants and coolants in metal cutting and forming operations and are also used as secondary plasticizers and flame retardants in plastics, such as PVC. Human exposure can be occupational, via inhalation of metalworking mists, or through contaminated food and dermal contact. Environmental exposure is usually from manufacturing activities, such as production, disposal, incineration, spills into waterways, and sewage effluent. SCCPs are persistent and very bioaccumulative in sediment. They have been found in marine mammals, other biota, and human breast milk in both industrial and remote areas. Toxic effects on mammals can include liver, hormone, and kidney damage that over a long term could lead to cancer in those organs.

Read more at Red List

Styrene

Styrene is a colorless, flammable liquid, which has a sweet odor and is highly volatile. Styrene is widely used to make plastics and rubber, which are used to manufacture a variety of products, such as insulation, pipes, automobile parts, printing cartridges, food containers, and carpet backing.

Read more at HPD-C

Supportive Housing Program

This program is authorized by title IV of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (the McKinney Act) (42 U.S.C. 11381–11389). The program is designed to promote the development of supportive housing and supportive services, including innovative approaches to assist homeless persons in the transition from homelessness, and to promote the provision of supportive housing to homeless persons to enable them to live as independently as possible.

Read more at EPA

Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)

In 1994, the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA), the primary U.S. trade association representing the wood products industry, launched SFI and required that all association members self-certify their compliance with its policies. SFI has gradually distanced itself from AF&PA and become a third-party certification program managed by an independent nonprofit, with accredited auditors carrying out certification. SFI’s current 2010–2014 standard is more rigorous than previous versions and considers most of the issues addressed by its principal competitor, FSC. SFI generally is less prescriptive, however, which has been a source of criticism from the environmental community

Read more at USGBC

toxicity

The degree to which a substance can cause harm.

Read more at USGBC

toxin

A poisonous substance produced by a living organism, such as a snake, bee, or fungus. Toxins are a subclass of toxicants.

Read more at USGBC

transparency

Open, comprehensive and understandable presentation of information.

Read more at EPA

ultra-low emitting formaldehyde (ULEF)

Products with a ULEF certification have ultra-low emitting formaldehyde resins which have been shown to have formaldehyde emissions below the limits established by CARB Phase 2. The ULEF certification originated with CARB, and has since been adopted by the EPA for the TSCA Title VI regulation.

Read more at Red List

UV-C

refers to the band of UV light between 100 nm and 280nm. This range of light has germicidal properties.

Read more at Red List

Healthy Affordable Housing Case Studies

The Rose

Minneapolis, MN May - December 2015

Downloads

Project Team

The Rose

16 products

About Our Collections

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A Healthier Affordable Building Product

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Health Product Declaration (HPD)

Declare Label

Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

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PureBond Hardwood Plywood

A Healthier Affordable Building Product

Available At the Donghia Materials Library

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Dimensional Surface, Plywood

Manufacturer

Columbia Forest Products

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PureBond Classic Core® Plywood

A Healthier Affordable Building Product

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Dimensional Surface, Plywood

Manufacturer

Columbia Forest Products

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Gold Bond Gypsum Board

A Healthier Affordable Building Product

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Drywall, Gypsum

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National Gypsum Company

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Gold Bond XP Gypsum Board

A Healthier Affordable Building Product

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Drywall, Gypsum

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National Gypsum Company

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Corian

A Healthier Affordable Building Product

Available At the Donghia Materials Library

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Dimensional Surface, Engineered Stone

Manufacturer

DuPont

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