A new tool is set to revolutionize the Australian architecture and design industry by promoting sustainable building practices. The “Product Aware” tool empowers architects and designers to advocate for the development of more sustainable products by seeking improved transparency and better access to product sustainability information.

According to the United Nations, the built environment is responsible for 37% of global emissions. We need to reduce our impact as an industry, and fast. One way to start is by using better products. However, confusion often arises regarding product and materials sustainability. Knowing what matters to designers, which certifications to pursue, and how to effectively communicate product sustainability credentials poses a massive challenge.

In response, Australian Architects Declare have worked alongside industry partners to create “Product Aware.” Its aim is to standardize how we ask questions around product sustainability. Its questions and categories have been extensively peer-reviewed. The products in its database clearly list their sustainability metrics, and it’s free for anybody to use and contribute to.

Developed with input from a broad coalition, including the Green Building Council, AIA SAF, Sustainable Business Matters, LFIA, Suppliers Declare, MECLA, independent architecture practices, interior designers, and suppliers, the “Product Aware” tool incorporates a meticulously reviewed questionnaire. This questionnaire aims to gather essential sustainability data from product suppliers, ensuring that architects and designers have access to the information they need to make informed decisions. 

Benefits for Specifiers:

For architects and designers, “Product Aware” simplifies the often complex process of evaluating the sustainability credentials of building products. By standardizing the questions asked of suppliers, the tool ensures that specifiers receive comprehensive and comparable data. This enhanced transparency helps professionals select products that align with their sustainability goals, contributing to greener, more environmentally friendly buildings.

Advantages for Suppliers:

Building product suppliers also stand to benefit from “Product Aware.” By participating in this transparent information-sharing process, suppliers can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, differentiating themselves in a competitive market. The tool provides a platform for suppliers to highlight their sustainable practices and innovations, potentially attracting more business from environmentally conscious architects and designers.

The collaborative development of “Product Aware” underscores its credibility and relevance. The involvement of diverse stakeholders ensures that the questions are not only necessary for architects but also reasonable for suppliers to answer. This balance fosters a cooperative environment where both parties can work together towards the common goal of sustainability.

As the construction industry increasingly prioritizes sustainable practices, tools like “Product Aware” are essential for driving change. By facilitating better communication and transparency between specifiers and suppliers, this tool is poised to play a crucial role in building a more sustainable future for Australia’s built environment.

We encourage everyone to check it out—especially if you want to make a dent in our industry’s massive emissions. It’s not the answer to every problem, but it could be a big step forward in elevating sustainability and decarbonization in the built environment through the sharing of product sustainability information and broad industry adoption. For more information, visit ProductAware.