31% of global carbon emissions come from making things – which means that manufacturing materials and products contribute significantly to the changing climate. Until recently, most attention on carbon emissions within the building industry focused on energy consumption from operating buildings once they are inhabited. But carbon emitted from the production, transportation, installation, maintenance, repair, and disposal of a building product is also significant.
This list considers emissions before a product is transported to the construction site. We look specifically at greenhouse gas emissions from extracting raw materials, transportation to the factory, and manufacturing a product (A1-A3 of a product's lifecycle).
Currently, there is no universal threshold for 'low embodied carbon' in materials. After discussing this research with experts, we set a rigorous standard that can meet 2030 goals. These products, labeled with 'LEC', embody below 5 kgs of CO₂eq per squaremeter.
*Products in this collection meet criteria for both material health and low embodied carbon.
Below are a few examples of low embodied carbon materialsthat meet our rigorous evaluation. For further help on your own search, scroll down to "Spec Guidance”.
Low Embodied Carbon Materials
24products
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. *HML refers to a manufacturer's EPD to determine whether a product's A1-A3 carbon emissions falls within HML's threshold for Low Embodied Carbon.
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 forinstallation.
Other
| Category | Sub-category | Manufacturer | Product | Ingredient Disclosures | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular | Fiberglass | Knauf Insulation | EcoBatt | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | EcoBattLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialEcoBatt Insulation is free of formaldehyde, acrylics, and artificial colors. This insulation combines 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 productions across the US, Europe, and the Middle East. When specifying this product be sure to consider the distance it will travel to your site. Ecobatt's R-value range is declared between 8-49 per inch. CategoryInsulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular,FiberglassManufacturerKnauf Insulation
Material composition*Glass oxide <100%,Syrups, hydrolyzed starch <10%, Ammonium Sulfate 1-5%, Mineral Oil 1-5%, Silane <1% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGAvailable in a variety of sizes and thicknesses for wood and metal framing COLORSTaupe CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD | Gold Declare | Red List Free Additional DocumentsTechdata Eco Batt KnaufLast UpdatedSeptember 21, 2016 |
| Insulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular | Fiberglass | Knauf Insulation | Jet Stream Ultra | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Jet Stream UltraA Healthier Affordable Building ProductAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialKnauf 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. Jet Stream's R-value range is declared between 11-60 per inch. CategoryInsulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular,FiberglassManufacturerKnauf Insulation
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 the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING32 lb Package COLORSWhite CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Declare | Red List Free GREENGUARD | Gold Additional DocumentsTechdata Jet Stream Ultra KnaufLast UpdatedOctober 16, 2022 |
| Insulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular | Mineral Fiber | Roxul | Safe | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | SafeA Healthier Affordable Building ProductAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialSafe is batt insulation made from mineral wool that provides acoustic dampening and is non-combustible. Safe N Sound is similar to Rockwool's Safe product but is primarily for interior applications. It is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it meets strict requirements for VOC and formaldehyde emissions. This product meets HML's 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 a substantial amount of recycled material. *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." Roxul's R-value range is declared at 4.2/inch. CategoryInsulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular,Mineral FiberManufacturerRoxul
Material composition*Stone Wool Biosoluble 95-100%, Syrups Hydrolyzed Starch 1-2%, Phenolic Formaldehyde Binder 0-1%, Urea Binder 0-1% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGAvailable in a variety of sizes and thicknesses for wood and metal framing COLORSTaupe CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD | Gold Additional DocumentsTechdata Mineral Wool RoxulLast UpdatedSeptember 21, 2016 |
| Insulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular | Mineral Fiber | Roxul | Safe N Sound | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Safe N SoundA Healthier Affordable Building ProductLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialSafe N Sound is 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. CategoryInsulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular,Mineral FiberManufacturerRoxul
Material composition*Mineral Wool 94-99%, Cured Urea Extended Phenolic Formaldehyde Binder 1-6%, Syrups, Hydrolized Starch, Proprietary Ingredient 0.05-0.2% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGAvailable in a variety of sizes and thicknesses for wood and metal framing COLORSTaupe CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Biopreferred Additional DocumentsTechdata Mineral Wool RoxulLast UpdatedSeptember 21, 2016 |
| Insulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular | Wood | GUTEX | Thermofibre | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | ThermofibreAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialGutex Thermofibre is a blow in insulation made of two components only: regionally sourced pinewood fiber and ammonium salts which act as a flame retardant. As a result, the product Thermofibre is made from natural, biodegradable materials. It is suitable for stud, rafter and ceiling insulation. It holds a European Natureplus certification that sets strict standards for material health and complies with REACH standards. According to Gutex's EPD which covers their wood fibre insulation, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. Gutex is based in Germany making this a better option for projects based in central Europe. Thermofibre's R-value is declared at 3.8 per inch. CategoryInsulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular,WoodManufacturerGUTEX
Material composition*95% Pinewood fiber, 5% ammonium salts *as reported by the manufacturer CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Natureplus Last UpdatedOctober 09, 2020 |
| Insulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular | Wool | Havelock Wool | Wool Batt Insulation | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Wool Batt InsulationLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialSheep's wool provides a healthy and comfortable choice for insulation. Wool is naturally flame resistant. Additionally, wool's unique structure (a hydrophobic exterior and hydrophilic interior) allows it to absorb up to 35% of its weight in moisture from a room. When used as insulation, this gives wool the unique capacity to manage both humidity and temperature. Batt insulation requires the material to hold its shape. Traditional batts are held together with chemical additives. Havelock Wool's uses needle punching to hold their product together, avoiding toxic chemicals. Per Havelock's EPD, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. Havelock's wool insulation are produced in Reno, NV, making its application most impactful on projects in western United States. *Note: Havelock's Loose Fill Insulation has R values of 4.3 and also meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryInsulation / Fibrous, Cellulosic, Granular,WoolManufacturerHavelock Wool
Material composition*Wool, Boric Acid *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING15.5" wide rolls, available in 2", 3", and 5.5" thicknesses CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Last UpdatedFebruary 27, 2018 |
| Paint / Mineral | Lime | Graphenstone | Graphenstone | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | GraphenstoneAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialGraphenstone has updated traditional lime paint formulas with their product by adding graphene, a material made from carbon. Graphene lends the paint extreme strength, durability, and washability. Additionally, the use of lime creates a paint that is not only free of harmful substances, but one that also actively improves indoor air quality by absorbing toxics and CO2. The white interior and exterior paint have a Cradle to Cradle Gold certification. This product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon in part because of its use of renewable energy and CO₂ absorbing ingredients. As the product is produced in Spain, shipping can negate it's low emission score. *NOTE: Recently, researchers have raised health concerns about graphene. According to the manufacturer, Graphenstone uses Nano Fibers of Graphene (NFG), which has a larger structure that is not harmful to human health. CategoryPaint / Mineral,LimeManufacturerGraphenstone
Material composition*Calcium Hydroxide (Lime) 40-70%, Water 10-30%, Calcium Carbonate 5-20%, Additives 1-5% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGAvailable in 1L, 4L, 12.5L, and 15L COLORSAvailable in a wide range of colors. White is the only color with a C2C Gold Certification. CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Cradle to Cradle | Gold Last UpdatedSeptember 06, 2019 |
| Plaster | Lime | Clayworks | Clay Plasters | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Clay PlastersAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialClayworks clay plasters are blends of unfired clays mixed with natural minerals and pigments. They provide a 100% natural alternative for gypsum plaster and paint wall finishing. Clayworks clay plasters are non-toxic, avoid synthetic additives and emit zero VOCs or formaldehyde. They are free of heavy metals and can be composted. The clay plasters help regulate indoor relative humidity and temperature, absorb toxics and odors, and are easily repaired. They are made in the UK and supplied in a dried form, ready to mix with water and apply with conventional plastering tools and skills. The BM-1 hazard on the HPD relates to respiratory protection. The clay plasters also contribute to WELL and LEED certifications. Per Claywork's product-specific EPDs, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryPlaster,LimeManufacturerClayworks
Material composition*Blended Sands, Kaolin, Other Proprietary Ingredients *as reported by the manufacturer CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Additional DocumentsClayworks voc emissions certificatesLast UpdatedJune 21, 2022 |
| Paint / Synthetic | Acrylic Latex | Sherwin Williams | ProMar© 200 Zero VOC | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | ProMar© 200 Zero VOCA Healthier Affordable Building ProductAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialSherwin 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. Per Sherwin William's EPD, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. 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*. CategoryPaint / Synthetic,Acrylic LatexManufacturerSherwin WilliamsMaterial 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 the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGPint, quart or gallon COLORSAvailable in a variety of colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD | Gold Biopreferred Additional DocumentsTechdata Pro Mar 200 Sherwin WilliamsLast UpdatedSeptember 22, 2016 |
| Resilient | Linoleum | Forbo Flooring Systems | Forbo MCT | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Forbo MCTA Healthier Affordable Building ProductAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialMarmoleum MCT tiles are made from natural materials such as linseed oil and rosin. The product is free from toxic materials such as phthalates. The modular tiles allow you to mix and match to design a unique floor surface. This product has a slightly thinner gauge at 2.0mm. Marmoleum MCT is 100% biobased according to Biopreferred.gov. Per Forbo's product-specific EPDs, this Marmoleum flooring system meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryResilient,LinoleumManufacturerForbo Flooring Systems
Material composition*Limestone 24.78 - 25.78%, Wood Flour 24.28 - 25.28%, Linseed Oil 23.1 - 24.1%, Tall Oil 7.76 - 8.76%, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) 7-8%, Gum Rosin 4.04%, Various Pigments 1% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING13.11 in x 13.11 in x 0.08 in CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Last UpdatedJuly 31, 2022 |
| Resilient | Linoleum | Forbo Flooring Systems | Marmoleum Modular | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Marmoleum ModularA Healthier Affordable Building ProductAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialMarmoleum 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. CategoryResilient,LinoleumManufacturerForbo Flooring Systems
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 the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING9.8”x 9.8”, 9.8”x 19.69” and 19.69”x 19.69” Tiles COLORSAvailable in a variety of colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Declare | Red List Free Biopreferred Additional DocumentsTechdata Marmoleum ForboLast UpdatedSeptember 23, 2016 |
| Resilient | Linoleum | Forbo Flooring Systems | Marmoleum Imagine | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Marmoleum ImagineA Healthier Affordable Building ProductLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialMarmoleum Imagine is made from natural materials and uses an Aquajet cutting technique to create the unique designs. The product has a low carbon footprint, and is free from toxic materials such as phthalates. The designs can be customized on request which allows for endless design possibilities. Per Forbo's product-specific EPDs, these Marmoleum flooring system meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryResilient,LinoleumManufacturerForbo Flooring Systems
Material composition*Linseed Oil 19%, Gum Rosin 2%, Tall Oil 9%, Wood Flour 24%, Calcium Carbonate 23%, Reused Marmoleum 11%, Jute 8%, Titanium Dioxide 2%, Various other pigments 1%, Lacquer 1% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING2.5mm x 32m rolls, 2mm x 32m rolls COLORSAvailable in a variety of colors and designs CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Declare | Red List Free Last UpdatedJanuary 13, 2022 |
| Resilient | Linoleum | Forbo Flooring Systems | Impressa | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | ImpressaA Healthier Affordable Building ProductAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialImpressa has a natural base made from renewable raw materials very similar to linoleum. A state-of-the-art printing technique allows prints directly on the substrate for a range of authentic wood looks. The product composition is free from PVC, phthalates and styrene. Note: Aluminum Trihydrate is used as a fire retardant to exceed flame spread and smoke development for all international fire testing standards. Per Forbo's product-specific EPDs, this flooring system meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryResilient,LinoleumManufacturerForbo Flooring Systems
Material composition*Linseed Oil 18%, Gum Rosin 2%, Tall Oil 9%, Aluminum Trihydrate 21.5%, Wood Flour 18%, Reused Marmoleum 16%, Calcium Carbonate 6%, Lacquer/Sealer 4.45%, Polyester 3.8%, Print Ink 0.95% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING39.4 in x 9.8 in x 0.1 in panels COLORSAvailable in a variety of colors and designs COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURECERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Declare | Red List Free Last UpdatedJanuary 13, 2022 |
| Resilient | Linoleum | Forbo Flooring Systems | Marmoleum Signature | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Marmoleum SignatureA Healthier Affordable Building ProductLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialMarmoleum Signature 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 patterns to design a unique floor surface. They can also be custom designed as long as they fit in one of the modular tile sizes. Per Forbo's product-specific EPDs, these Marmoleum flooring system meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryResilient,LinoleumManufacturerForbo Flooring Systems
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 the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING9.8”x 19.69” and 19.69”x 19.69” Tiles COLORSAvailable in a variety of colors and designs CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Declare | Red List Free Additional DocumentsForbo Marmoleum Signature techn specs EN IS 190118Last UpdatedJanuary 13, 2022 |
| Resilient | Linoleum | Tarkett | Linofloor xf² | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Linofloor xf²Low-Embodied Carbon MaterialThe newly released Tarkett Linofloor xf² flooring (specifically "Veneto") replaces the Harmonium line, previously listed by HML. This linoleum product avoids toxic heavy metals, PVC, PFAS, urea-formaldehyde, phthalates, and halogenated flame retardants. Some pigments used hopefully can be replaced with healthier alternatives soon. Tarkett offers a take-back program for their products and offcuts are 100% recyclable. Lino xf² is a glue-down linoleum - be sure to select a healthier adhesive option when installing this product. Per Tarkett's product-specific EPDs, it's Linofloor xf₂ lines meet HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. Some thicknesses come with a polyurethane backing, it's best to avoid these as that increases its carbon impact. It contains 100% Biobased Content according to Bioprefered.gov. CategoryResilient,LinoleumManufacturerTarkett
Material composition*calcium carbonate 21.591-24.274%, cellulose 5-24.8%, cork flour 5-24%, lignin 5-24.8%, linseed oil 1.671-2.802%, cork flour 0.641-1.657%, wood flour 0.642-1.657%, wood flour 0.642-1.657%, jute 0.518-0.869%, titanium dioxide 0.299-0.419%, polyurethane acrylic copolymer <0.666%, colophony 0.262-0.44%, carbon black <0.133%, iron oxide <0.133%, pigment red 101 <0.133%, pigment yellow 42 <0.133%, linseed oil 27.4%, rosin 4.3%, juts 8.5%, titanium dioxide 4.1%, C.I. pigment yellow 42 <0.2%, carbon black <0.2%, iron oxide <0.2%, iron oxide (Fe304) <0.2%, polyurethane acrylic copolymer <1% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGRoll 6.5' x ≤ 100', 2.5mm thick COLORS66 CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Cradle to Cradle | Silver Biopreferred Last UpdatedJune 25, 2021 |
| Wood Flooring | Engineered Wood | HempWood | HempWood | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | HempWoodAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialHempWood is a hardwood alternative composed of hemp, soy flour, and binders (without isocyanates). As an engineered flooring product, the base is Columbia Forest purebond plywood. HempWood is harder than oak, and a durable wood option that promotes the carbon sequestering hemp-growing industry. All hemp for this product is grown locally in the U.S. and the entire supply chain is within a 100-mile radius of Murray, Kentucky. It contains 98% Biobased Content according to Bioprefered.gov. Hempwood has a Janka hardness rating of 2,750. HempWood products are available either with a factory finish or unfinished. Wax or oil are suggested healthier options for unfinished floors. Check out Alternative Finishes in HML’s Healthier Design Alternatives. Per Hempwood's product-specific EPDs, it meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryWood Flooring,Engineered WoodManufacturerHempWood
Material composition*Hemp >80%, Soy <15%, cured resin <5% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING5/8 X 5 X 48” for flooring COLORSunfinished, prefinished, bourbon CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Biopreferred Last UpdatedApril 26, 2021 |
| Wood Flooring | Engineered Wood | mafi | Natural Wooden Flooring | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Natural Wooden FlooringAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon Materialmafi is an Austrian company that specializes in the production of three-layer wooden planks that can be used as flooring, walls, or ceilings. mafi floors are finished using natural oils. Instead of creating a seal-like more typical lacquers, the oil soaks into the wood and protects it from the inside out. Because it does not create a barrier, the oil finish on mafi’s wood floors allows the material to breathe and to help regulate the interior climate and improve indoor air quality. The natural oil finish is also free of toxic solvents. All of the wood used in mafi's flooring is grown in Austria, within 12km ( 8 miles ) of the factory. Per Mafi's product-specific EPDs, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryWood Flooring,Engineered WoodManufacturermafi
Material composition*Wood 99.9%, Polyvinyl Acetate Adhesive 0.05%, Natural Oils 0.05% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGAvailable in a range of plank sizes COLORSOak, beech, ash, maple, walnut, acacia, spruce, larch, swiss stone pine, douglas fir, fir CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Last UpdatedSeptember 11, 2019 |
| Wood Flooring | Engineered Wood | Kährs | Multi Layer Flooring | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Multi Layer FlooringA Healthier Affordable Building ProductAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialKährs's 3-layer flooring product is made up of a surface layer, a core layer, and a backing. All of their surface treatments are naturally free from solvents, formaldehyde and isocyanate, and the floors carry a FloorScore emissions certification. The Multi Layer Flooring can be installed floating on a level surface as opposed to being glued down. This allows you to avoid potentially unhealthy adhesives in addition to allowing for future disassembly and reuse. *NOTE: This product is ULEF as opposed to NAF, meaning it contains ultra-low emitting formaldehyde. Per Kahrs's EPD, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryWood Flooring,Engineered WoodManufacturerKährs
Material composition*Wood/Wood Fiber 93-94% [Amino Based Glue 2.6-3%, Carbamide Adhesive 1.0-2%, Lacquer Sherwin-Williams 0.8-1%, Filler 0.1%, Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) 0.08-0.1%], Polyolefin Foam Plastic 0.4-0.5%, Polyester Foam - Bottom 0.5-0.5% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING72’’x 6 1/4” Plank; 3/8", 5/8", or 3/4" Thickness COLORSAvailable in a variety of wood species CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other FSC | Chain of Custody Certification Additional DocumentsTechdata Avanti KahrsLast UpdatedFebruary 08, 2020 |
| Textile | Cotton | Kvadrat | Harald 3 | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Harald 3Low-Embodied Carbon MaterialA short-pile velour, Harald 3 is a cotton textile with a velvety optic. This product is Greenguard Gold certified for low emissions, and thankfully there is transparency with this product given by its Health and Environmental Product Disclosures (HPD and EPD). This textile is suitable for upholstery and curtains. Per Kvadrat's product-specific EPDs, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryTextile,CottonManufacturerKvadrat
Material composition*100% Cotton *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING55"/140 cm wide COLORS30 Colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD Certification Last UpdatedOctober 03, 2020 |
| Textile | Wool | Kvadrat | Tonica 2 | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Tonica 2Low-Embodied Carbon MaterialDesigned by Georgina Wright, Tonica 2 is a woolen upholstery textile. This product is Greenguard Gold certified for low emissions, has both Health and Environmental Product Disclosures, and holds an EU Ecolabel. Tonica 2 is composed of 100% wool which can be biodegradable and because wool retains moisture in its fibers, it resists flame without chemical treatment. Per Kvadrat's product-specific EPDs, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryTextile,WoolManufacturerKvadrat
Material composition*100% New Wool *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING55"/140 cm wide COLORS39 Colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD | Gold EU EcoLabel Last UpdatedOctober 03, 2020 |
| Paint / Mineral | Potassium Silicate | Keim | Innostar | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | InnostarA Healthier Affordable Building ProductAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialMineral paints provide a healthier alternative to acrylic paints and primers as it is made from Potassium Silicate. They avoid asthmagens, are odorless, and are naturally mold-resistant. Keim Mineral Silica Paint has low to no VOCs. It is made from natural ingredients. This product is NaturePlus certified and has Cradle2Cradle Material Health Gold certification. The Innostar Line is a matte, scrub-rate class A finish with a coverage efficiency that allows for one primer & one paint coat only. Titanium Dioxide is being used for pigmenting, the whiter the pigment, the more titanium dioxide. CategoryPaint / Mineral,Potassium SilicateManufacturerKeim
Material composition*Silica sol (aqueous solution) 10-15%, Polymer (polyacrylate) 2.5-5%, Titanium dioxide (white) and/or inorganic pigments 0-20%, Mineral Fillers (silicate and calcite) 25-35%, Water 25-35%, Hydrophobing agents 2.5-5%, Thickeners <1%, Stabilisers <1%, Wetting agents <1%, Defoamers <1% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZING8kg or 20kg buckets COLORSVarious CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other GREENGUARD | Gold Natureplus Cradle to Cradle | Gold Last UpdatedAugust 17, 2022 |
| Resilient | Biobased | Duracryl International | Durabella Terrazzo | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Durabella TerrazzoAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialDurabella Terrazzo flooring is composed of marble aggregates and/or natural stones with a vegetable oil-based binder. This healthier alternative to epoxy flooring is Red List Free and passes VOC emissions standards for the level of Indoor Air Comfort. The production of this product currently requires the use of isocyanates. While the manufacturer avoids the more harmful toluene diisocyanate (TDI), any isocyanate can be hazardous when the product is wet. Therefore, installers should use proper protection. Durabella is customizable and can be applied to interior and exterior surfaces. Per Duracryl's EPD, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryResilient,BiobasedManufacturerDuracryl International
Material composition*Binder 50-80% with HDI Activator (2-Oxepanone, Polymer with 2-ETHYL-2-(HydroxyMethyl)-1,3-Propanediol 50%; Vegetable Oil 50%); Calcium Carbonate Filler 2.5-11.7%; Pigment 0.4-0.8% (C.I. Yellow 42 25%; Diiron Trioxide 25%; Iron Oxide 25%; Titanium Oxide 25%); Polyurethane 0.3% *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGcustom poured CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Additional DocumentsDurabella Specsheet 2021 2Last UpdatedDecember 03, 2021 |
| Resilient | Linoleum | Duracryl International | Corques Liquid Lino | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Corques Liquid LinoAvailable At the Donghia Materials LibraryLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialCorques Liquid Lino offers a revolutionary way to use linoleum. An alternative to traditional rolls and tiles, this product from Duracryl International is sold as a liquid and poured onto a subfloor onsite. It sets overnight at ambient temperatures to create a seamless durable and natural looking resilient floor. Corques Liquid Lino is made from vegetable oil, cork, wood-flour, limestone, and natural color pigments. It is free of VOCs, PVC, plasticizers, formaldehyde, chlorine, and heavy metals. Per Duracryl's EPD, this product meets HML's criteria for low embodied carbon. CategoryResilient,LinoleumManufacturerDuracryl International
Material composition*Binder with MDI Activator: Castor Oil, Linseed Oil; Filler: Calcium Carbonate, Quercus Suber Bark; Pigment: C.I. Pigment Yellow 42, Dilron Trioxide, Iron Oxide (Fe304), Titanium Dioxide; Finish: Polyurethane *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGN/A (Poured Material) COLORSAvailable in 54 Colors CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Declare | Red List Free Last UpdatedOctober 16, 2022 |
| Paint / Mineral | Potassium Silicate | Alkemis Paint | Interior Mineral Paint & Primer | HPDDeclareEPDSDS | Interior Mineral Paint & PrimerLow-Embodied Carbon MaterialThis mineral-based paint allows for an exceptionally durable bond between paint and substrate that can last for decades. Free of plasticizers, solvents, preservatives, and biocides, Alkemis does not off-gas and is conducive to a better indoor climate. Alkemis is C2C certified with a Material Health Gold ranking. The paint is a velvet-matte, scrub-rate class A finish. CategoryPaint / Mineral,Potassium SilicateManufacturerAlkemis Paint
Material composition*Silica sol, titanium dioxide, inorganic natural color pigments, silicate and calcite fillers, water, proprietary hydrophobic agents, proprietary thickening agent, polymer, proprietary defoamer and stabilizer *as reported by the manufacturer AVAILABLE SIZINGGallon, quart, or 3.5 gallons CERTIFICATIONS & DISCLOSURESHealth Product Declaration (HPD) Declare Label Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Other Cradle to Cradle | Gold Additional DocumentsTDS ALKEMIS Interior Mineral Paint PrimerSafety Data Sheet ALKEMIS Interior Mineral Paint 6Last UpdatedNovember 20, 2023 |
Spec Guidance
Prefer carbon sequestering materials whenever possible. Examples include timber, hempcrete, plant fibers, wool, clay, and lime.
Prefer locally produced products. Carbon emissions from transporting products increase the overall footprint and may lead to a product becoming a large source of carbon emissions.
Consider reuse and retrofit rather than new construction whenever possible.
Reconsider structure and foundation. Steel and concrete are currently the largest sources of CO₂eq in the built environment. Timber structures sequester rather than emit carbon.
Consider installation details that do not require adhesives (which have high embodied carbon).
Encourage manufacturers to analyze the environmental impact of their products and provide EPDs.
Look for products with EPDs that indicate *low or no Global Warming Potential (GWP) per functional unit.
Consider conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of your project before beginning.
Consider the ratio of renewable to nonrenewable energy being used in the manufacturing of a product.
Updated January 28, 2022
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