AIA Materials Pledge at Neumann Monson: 2026 Update
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Our Commitment to the AIA Material Pledge
As a signatory and early adopter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Materials Pledge, our firm is involved in a growing movement of industry leaders committed to transforming the building materials industry. Our firm was one of 141 reporting signatories that came together to provide data to help the industry move towards a more holistic materials specification. We also chose to report on the optional project and product metrics.
Understanding the AIA Material Pledge
The building industry contributes significantly to global carbon emissions and resource depletion. The AIA Materials Pledge was created to provide a framework for architects to systematically address these challenges. By signing, we commit to selecting materials that prioritize the following:
- Human Health: Avoiding harmful materials and promoting those that support human wellbeing
- Climate Health: Reducing carbon emissions through informed material choices
- Ecosystem Health: Protecting and restoring natural resources and biodiversity
- Social Health and Equity: Supporting human rights and environmental justice
- Circular Economy: Minimizing waste and promoting material reuse
Next Steps
We are consistently working towards broader sustainability in our materials selection. Whether that’s earlier consideration of materials choices in the design phase, prioritizing manufacturers who provide material transparency documentation, or developing workflows to better prioritize healthy materials. Moving forward, we would like to place greater emphasis on life cycle analysis and enhance documentation of material impacts.
We have started to develop criteria for Material Library Entry Criteria and will tackle the Material Libraries in both of our studios in concert with Master Specification Updates. We will develop a Practice Guide for Neumann Monson that will explain our Material Library Criteria, provide implementation resources, and manufacturer resources.
Consider diving deeper to learn more about the AIA Materials Pledge and our commitment.