Global architecture firm, Perkins&Will, in partnership with the nonprofit research organization, Healthy Building Network, has released two reports that aim for the adoption of low-carbon gypsum drywall, flooring, and insulation materials for AEC professionals.
The reports are titled “Embodied Carbon and Material Health in Gypsum Drywall and Flooring” and “Embodied Carbon and Material Health in Insulation.”
Gypsum drywall and flooring are known for their significant environmental impact during production and transportation, as well as their emission of harmful chemicals. Insulation, too, can harm the environment by releasing greenhouse gases (GHGs) and may contain toxic substances that migrate into indoor spaces. In 2022, the U.S. alone saw sales of nearly 2.23 billion m2 (24 billion sf) of gypsum board and an additional 2.76 billion m2 (29.69 billion sf) of flooring. Insulation distribution, valued at $57.5 billion, equates to approximately 1.07 billion m2 (11.5 billion sf) sold. Even small reductions in the carbon footprint and improvements in material health for these product categories could have a substantial positive impact on creating a more sustainable built environment.
The reports provide essential guidance for architects and designers to select materials that consider both environmental and material safety concerns, enabling them to make more eco-conscious choices without compromising on carbon or health priorities.
Key highlights from the reports include:
- Optimized products for material health and embodied carbon. The reports demonstrate that products which enhance both material health and embodied carbon are available for flooring, gypsum drywall, and insulation.
- Screening for optimized product types: The guidance encourages professionals to initially screen for optimized product types before narrowing down their choices. Selecting different product types within a category can yield significant improvements.
- Navigating potential contradictions: Recognizing that material health and embodied carbon considerations may sometimes conflict, the reports stress the importance of reviewing the provided guidance to make informed decisions.
Leigh Christy, principal and co-director of research at Perkins&Will, emphasized the importance of industry partnerships, stating, “Our research collaboration with Healthy Building Network underscores the importance of industry partnerships in effecting change. These reports provide project teams and the industry at large with vital information to make informed decisions about materials and products that benefit both people and the planet.”
