Discussion July 9 At Chapter Meeting
by Diane Beaver, USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter Program Committee Member
We find ourselves in an ever changing world of information and thought processes with regard to the way we live and the spaces we inhabit. How can we make sure these interior environments are safe? Are we doing the best we can in making decisions that affect our health and the environment long term?
When interior finish products and furniture are specified at the beginning of a project a lot of thought is put into what will be used in terms of aesthetics. Many times architects and designers are asked to cut costs. Now more than ever, this is the case, as we are urged to reduce the up-front cost of a project, while keeping the design intent and attaining the most healthy and eco-friendly environments for occupants.. Specification decisions for interior building materials are made based on the latest knowledge of the products available. This information is provided by many sectors in the building industry.
Many industries are improving techniques in the production of their goods – from the materials they use to the finishing products applied to the disposal of the production waste. Shipping and installation are also important considerations to be made in the design specification process. And chemicals used in all phases of production and installation have changed in recent years. How is the furniture we specify produced? What does it really mean when a carpet claims to contain recycled content? What chemicals are in the adhesives used to install flooring, carpet and other surface materials? How will the selections made to finish an interior space impact the future occupants of these spaces?
Get some answers to these questions at the July 9th meeting of the USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter! A panel discussion will feature Industry professionals representing commercial furniture, carpet, surfaces and adhesive and chemical products. They will discuss what is new in green and sustainable products in these industries and help us to be more proactive in finding and using them. This is an opportunity to ask questions and understand some of the terms used to describe processes and classify products.
Please join us from 5:30 to 7:30pm on Tuesday July 9th at the Sheet Metal Workers Local 36, 2319 Chouteau, Suite 200 St Louis MO 63103!
To learn more or to RSVP, visit www.usgbc-mogateway.org or give us a call at 314-577-0854.