Smith shared insights from a comprehensive study that analyzed 603 building products across four building types, using the Green Science Policy Institute’s “Six Classes” approach as a foundation. The research revealed that while only 21.5% of products had Health Product Declarations (HPDs), those that did provided detailed information at 100 parts per million. Notably, 52 products with HPDs contained at least one of the 12 chemical classes of concern.
The study uncovered crucial connections between healthy materials, cost, and carbon impact. Alternative products without concerning chemicals typically showed lower embodied carbon, though cost implications varied widely. While the median cost increase for alternatives was 40%, some healthier options were actually less expensive.
Smith emphasized that regulation alone cannot address chemical concerns, calling for continued advocacy from designers, specifiers, manufacturers, and ecosystem partners. Her presentation highlighted how tools like HPD Pre-Checks are streamlining assessment processes, demonstrating that despite challenges, systematic approaches can drive meaningful progress in material health.