Leaders push for technology-driven solutions, standardized data, and stakeholder engagement to advance sustainability.
The 2024 mindful MATERIALS (mM) Forum Summit was an unprecedented gathering, bringing together leaders from across the building materials industry. Building on the success of the Forums (launched in 2023), the second annual mindful MATERIALS Forum Summit took attendees further into the heart of the building materials industry's challenges and opportunities.
The diversity of voices and perspectives defined this year’s Summit. From manufacturers, architects, designers, contractors, technology platforms, ecolabels and standards, sustainability experts, and more, the shared sense of purpose was clear: We need to accelerate and scale the adoption of sustainable practices and products in our industry. The collaborative nature of this Summit — where every conversation felt like a step toward real solutions — underscored the urgency of this work.
Day one set the tone with presentations and discussions that didn’t shy away from addressing the complexities of scaling sustainable practices. Though some of this information wasn’t new to some attendees, it was essential for all present to start from the same foundation to accelerate collaborations across stakeholders. Attendees started by examining the state of the materials industry, taking a hard look at our progress and where we still have work to do.
One of the most impactful moments came during the breakout sessions. These smaller, facilitated conversations allowed attendees to dive deep into critical topics such as transparency, data-driven decision-making, and radical collaboration. Watching the exchange of ideas and the way people connected was a reminder of how powerful it is to bring together professionals passionate about driving change.
Day two focused on the future, with solution-focused conversations that were grounded in the realities we face. Attendees explored how we, as an industry, can align our efforts to amplify action — whether through policy changes, corporate commitments, or cross-sector partnerships. This momentum was evident throughout the day as attendees worked together to identify what needs to change and how we can make that change happen.
Participants emphasized the importance of data standardization to ensure that sustainability information is comparable and easily accessible. Harmonizing certifications and creating digital tools for material reporting were seen as vital steps in this process. These tools would allow AEC professionals to make informed, real-time decisions that consider environmental and human health impacts.
The Summit also stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement or “movement building.” This collaboration and the associated resources are crucial to breaking down barriers and promoting sustainable practices across the industry. The inclusion of such a broad spectrum of voices marked a significant step forward in creating a more collaborative approach to sustainability.
Technology integration was another key focus, with discussions on how AI and automation could reduce redundancy in data management and streamline certification workflows. These innovations aim to make sustainability easier to implement, ensuring all stakeholders have access to the data they need.
The Summit closed with actionable steps for continuing collaboration and advancing sustainable materials. By uniting the industry, the Summit set the stage for long-term progress in sustainable building practices backed by data transparency and technology-driven solutions.
Summit Sets Path for Connected Technology to Automate Sharing of Sustainability Data; Cross-Sector Collaboration and Resources
The outcomes of the 2024 mindful MATERIALS Forum Summit include:
Actionable Roadmaps and Collaboration facilitated by mM: Steps, and facilitated small working groups to co-create resources that support us moving collectively toward the "Materials Easy Button" to streamline sustainability data access and decision-making.
Data Standardization: Emphasis on harmonizing certifications and integrating real-time data tools to support transparency.
Increased Collaboration & Resources: Strong focus on expanding cross-sector partnerships involving manufacturers, architects, designers, and policymakers.
Technology Integration: Discussions on utilizing AI and automation to simplify workflows and reduce redundancies.
Long-term Vision: Established strategies for advancing sustainable practices across the industry through mindful MATERIALs convening and alignment outcomes.
“mindful MATERIALS is proud to be the ‘elected’ convener of these efforts,” says Annie Bevan, CEO. “As such, we will launch an industry-wide report at Greenbuild that will summarize the state of the building materials industry, our collective work to date, and what individuals and their organizations can do right now.
“We’ll also be sharing a draft business plan for the Forums as they enter their third year together,” continues Bevan. “This plan will list out our anticipated outcomes, which we intend to celebrate in October 2025 at the third annual Forum Summit. This draft plan will be made available to Forum members and partners at Greenbuild 2024. It was thrilling to identify and celebrate our progress throughout the Summit and to see so many cross-sector conversations unfold. We must keep the momentum going; we’re excited to get to work.”
Learn more about the Forums > https://www.mindfulmaterials.com/the-forums