Building Trust Through Transparency

Building Trust Through Transparency Posted: Sep 2017 Posted by: Mats Inc.

Transparency is a growing trend in the building industry – being open and honest about building processes, products and materials has allowed many companies to gain the trust and business of designers. Third party certification programs, such as LEED, also encourage transparency.

LEED v4, established in 2013 and fully implemented last October, has been a big motivator in the transparency movement. Under the Materials and Resources (MR) category, products are given credit for having Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and Health Product Declarations (HPDs). EPDs inform the purchasing decision makers of the environmental impact of the product, and HPDs inform the purchasing decision makers of the health impacts of the product. These documents disclose the health risks and hazards of the product. Also available is Raw Material Transparency Reporting, a full report that discloses what types of raw materials are in the product, as well as supplier information.

These declarations are helpful in educating architects and designers on the facts about each product, including the chemistry, emissions, and impacts on the environment and health. As more markets seek to create healthy, energy-efficient and productive environments, architect and designer preferences for products that contribute to multiple LEED credits is expected to be a factor impacting flooring choices when designing healthier buildings in the future. With a large majority of the population spending most of their day indoors, whether at school, work or home, it is becoming increasingly important to reduce the exposure to chemicals and harmful ingredients that may be part of the building’s construction.

Transparency has become a successful business practice because it lends an element of trust with total openness. More companies are taking a second look at the processes and materials used to manufacturer their products and are recognizing the weight held by third-party certifications. By demonstrating the willingness to be honest and open about the products, manufacturers and builders are gaining the trust. Having material ingredients listed and openly disclosed allows designers to be informed and make better decisions regarding consumer health and the environment. It also allows designers and consumers to make educated decisions on their building products, as well as avoiding any false sustainability claims.

Mats Inc. has listed all possible LEED credits (both v2009 and v4) in our effort to be transparent and create a more sustainable environment. All of our available EPDs and HPDs are included in our online documentation for your reference.