Sep 2 • General discussion
3 Common Misconceptions About Building Sustainably
As someone who works directly with manufacturers to publish Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and conduct full life cycle assessments (LCAs), I see the same myths repeated across industries—from concrete and coatings to composites and cladding.
Here are three of the most common.
Misconception 1: “Bio-based materials are always more sustainable than plastic.”
This isn’t necessarily true. Bio-based content can reduce emissions, but only when the full supply chain, energy inputs, and end-of-life impacts are favorable.
For example, in a publicly available lifecycle assessment by NatureWorks for Ingeo PLA (a leading bioplastic made from corn), cradle-to-gate emissions range from 1.1 to 1.6 kg CO₂e per kg of product. That’s in the same range—or higher—than some fossil-based plastics like polypropylene or HDPE, especially if those plastics are manufactured using renewable energy or include recycled content.
I think it does bear mentioning here the other environmental damage caused by plastics which is more than substantial, but the topic is carbon emissions so I wanted to stay focused here.
Bio ≠ low carbon. You need the full life cycle data.
Misconception 2: “Sustainability always costs more.”
Not when you quantify it. Companies that invest in LCAs and EPDs often unlock operational savings, product insights, and access to new markets. Whether it’s prequalification for LEED or Buy Clean policies, better investor optics, or simply having data to defend pricing—environmental transparency can be a revenue generator, not a cost center.
Misconception 3: “If the product is low-carbon, it doesn’t matter where it’s made.”
Manufacturing location, energy mix, and plant efficiency can make or break your carbon story. I’ve modeled identical flooring systems—same ingredients, same build-up—but with one factory powered by coal-heavy grid electricity and another using 100% renewables. The result? Over 30% difference in emissions.
Sustainability isn’t just what you make. It’s where and how you make it.
If you’re in manufacturing, sales, or sustainability and want to see how your product really stacks up, comment below or message me directly. I’m happy to share insights or benchmarks.
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3 Common Misconceptions About Building Sustainably
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