Driving reductions from embodied carbon emissions is a critical component of our global decarbonization strategy. One way to have a significant impact on embodied carbon emissions is the development of circular processes for our building materials. On March 28th we’ll learn about the strategies at play to cut emissions from embodied carbon, the way that the circular economy supports decarbonization goals, recent state and federal policy changes, and the ways people and projects in Minnesota are tackling this complicated but impactful way to take-action on climate change.

Join expert, Richard Graves, to learn more about how policy is evolving to advance progress on embodied carbon in building materials. The IRA has several provisions that support projects to standardize how embodied carbon is addressed in building projects. Additionally, learn about the federal-state buy clean partnership and how it is advancing best practices on addressing embodied carbon. There are 13 states are currently participating in this partnership including Minnesota.

As we dig into this topic, we’ll enjoy a hybrid “fireside chat” in which we’ll hear from Aaron Smith, CEO of Energy and Environmental Building Alliance, and Chris Magwood, Manager of Carbon-Free Buildings at RMI, who will discuss the state of embodied carbon, the future promise of circularity in building materials and they’ll discuss the recent RMI and USGBC report focused on “Driving Action on Embodied Carbon in Buildings.”

Finally, Danny Dejarlais, Industrial Hemp Construction Project Manager with the Lower Sioux Indian Community will moderate a panel with his team to discuss the development of their farm to home, recyclable hempcrete production in southern Minnesota. We’ll learn how bio-based building materials are being grown right here in Minnesota to support the creation of healthy, sustainable, and beautiful housing.

We look forward to you joining us to discuss this important topic and learn how you can make an impact in the work you do.