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From decarbonization strategies to innovative materials, Greenbuild showcased numerous developments that offer builders new ways to meet climate goals. Attendees from DPR Construction shared their top insights from the event:
Reducing embodied carbon in buildings and construction materials remains a key focus for builders working toward carbon reduction goals. Solutions for lowering embodied carbon involve using alternative materials, recycling, reclaiming, or simply reducing the materials used. However, the challenge of implementing these strategies equitably across communities generated much debate at the conference, with little consensus on the best approach. – Audrey Daley, Sustainability Leader, Atlanta
Mindful Materials introduced the Common Materials Framework (CMF), emphasizing the need for an "easier button" to facilitate a regenerative materials economy. "We’ve gathered extensive data on sourcing low-carbon materials, and early planning paired with the right databases is crucial to achieving success," said Alicia Ravetto, Senior Sustainability Leader, Raleigh-Durham.
A major theme at the conference was shifting from "demolition" to "deconstruction," focusing on maximizing material reuse and minimizing waste. Construction and demolition waste accounts for 30% of the total solid waste in the U.S., with a significant portion ending up in landfills. The key question is how to design projects today that allow for deconstruction and material recovery tomorrow. – Tristen Magallanes, Incubation Leader, San Francisco
The upcoming release of LEED® v5 will place a stronger emphasis on decarbonization. It will raise certification standards by introducing mandatory credits aimed at advancing decarbonization goals. "Leveraging years of experience with new sourcing tools will help project teams meet the challenges of achieving LEED Gold and Platinum certifications," said Alicia Ravetto.
Mass timber continues to gain momentum as a sustainable, carbon-sequestering building material. The conversation has expanded to include reclaimed wood and deconstructed timber, offering new sustainable solutions. This opens exciting possibilities for green design while pushing the limits of what can be achieved in construction. – Tristen Magallanes
The USGBC's "Nature's Blueprint: Enhancing Biodiversity Through Design" report offers valuable insights into incorporating biodiversity into projects. Environments rich in biodiversity enhance mental and physical health, improve air quality, and strengthen community bonds. Nature-based solutions align with decarbonization goals while boosting property values and offering long-term cost savings through reduced energy and water usage. – Alicia Ravetto
The USGBC’s new impact report details the progress of the LEED program in transforming how buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. The report serves as a reminder that sustainability is a long-term journey, not an overnight transformation. LEED’s success has proven that sustainability is both the right and smart economic choice, enhancing resilience and making green buildings more widely accepted. – Alicia Ravetto
Equity is a fundamental part of sustainability, but it is often overlooked in the conversation. It’s time for contractors and project owners to ensure equitable access to work and consider how projects can engage meaningfully with local communities. – Tristen Magallanes
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