Join us for an immersive and experiential Flash Charette that will offer a hands-on exploration of the challenges of minimizing embodied carbon in flooring, ceiling, and wall materials, as well as furniture. Through a team-based exercise, we will navigate the complexities of sustainable material selection by examining those with controversial environmental impacts and addressing their trade-offs and challenges. By comparing their findings and examining real-world case studies, participants will gain practical insights into the nuances of sustainable design and decision-making. 

The session will begin with an overview of embodied carbon and its significance in evaluating the environmental impact of interior materials. Attendees will then dive into a collaborative activity where they work in groups to select building materials, aiming to create combinations with the lowest embodied carbon while considering performance, cost, and other factors. 

By the end of the session, attendees will come away with a deeper understanding of embodied carbon in building design, as well as strategies for navigating the complexities of material selection to minimize environmental impact. They will also experience firsthand the power of collaborative problem-solving and leave inspired to drive positive change in their own projects and practices. 

Learning Objectives: 

• Define embodied carbon and evaluate its role in assessing the environmental impacts of building materials and design decisions. 
• Analyze material selection factors and trade-offs to support sustainable decision-making in building projects. 
• Apply strategies for identifying low embodied carbon material combinations using insights from case studies. 
• Assess the outcomes of the Flash Charrette and their implications for sustainable construction practices. 

Speakers:

Katia Lucuy, Associate, Sustainability Analyst + LCA Specialist, HLW BEYOND 

Jonce Walker, Principal, Global Director of Sustainability and Wellness, HLW BEYOND