Join Illinois Green Alliance and Chicago Sustainable Construction Leaders for an engaging panel discussion focused on how construction specifications can be powerful tools for advancing sustainability in the built environment. This session will explore topics such as how clearer alignment between Division 01 and trade-specific specifications can support sustainable goals, how specified materials align with rating system requirements, and the strategic use of performance specs versus product-specific ones—especially within the context of public projects. From the bidding phase to the final submittals, the session will spotlight the crucial points where sustainable outcomes are either enabled or missed.

The conversation will also dig into how collaboration between architects, general contractors, and owners can close the gap between design intent and construction execution. Panelists will consider the GC’s role in reviewing submittals, verifying conformance with sustainability specs, and ensuring alignment with rating systems like LEED and LBC. As embodied carbon reduction becomes an urgent priority, this session will also address the question: when project teams are unsure how to lower a building’s carbon footprint, who takes the lead? Whether you're an architect, specifier, contractor, or owner, this event will offer valuable insights on integrating sustainability deeper into project specifications and workflows.