COURSE: Advancing the Future of Construction with Bio-Based Materials

Welcome to the Gābl Media Continuing Education podcast feed! Each podcast is approved for continuing education credits.Advancing the Future of Construction with Bio-Based MaterialsAIA CES program ID: GMGH.0026Approved LUs: 1 LU|HSWPrerequisites: NoneProgram level: EntryAdvance learner preparation: NoneWhat if your material choices could lower carbon emissions, slash fire risk, improve indoor air quality, and create affordable housing options—without sacrificing performance or code compliance? Hemp and other bio-based building materials aren’t fringe anymore. They’re advancing into the heart of construction—and changing what it means to build responsibly. This course shows you how to align climate goals with real-world application, unlocking sustainable design that actually delivers.Program DescriptionFrom carbon-negative walls to toxin-free insulation, bio-based materials are redefining the future of construction—and hemp is leading the charge. This course, developed in partnership with the Hemp Building Institute, takes you inside the evolving landscape of natural building materials that do more than just meet sustainability standards. You’ll explore how industrial hemp and hempcrete are being used to create fire-resistant, energy-efficient, and breathable buildings that outperform traditional systems in both residential and commercial settings.But innovation doesn’t come without barriers. That’s why this course doesn’t stop at performance—it also addresses the political, logistical, and regulatory forces that shape adoption, and equips you with the tools to navigate them. From permitting to public perception, you’ll leave with the clarity and confidence to specify bio-based systems in real projects. Whether you’re designing for affordability, resilience, or regenerative impact, this course helps you push beyond greenwashing and into true environmental leadership.Learning ObjectivesBy taking this course, participants will:Identify the carbon reduction, health, and resilience benefits of hemp-based materials in both new construction and retrofitsEvaluate the structural and thermal performance of hempcrete, including its fire resistance and vapor permeability advantages over traditional insulationNavigate real-world regulatory, market, and perception-based barriers to specifying hemp, and examine strategies for overcoming them in both commercial and residential contextsApply bio-based materials in the design of affordable housing projects that prioritize occupant health, long-term durability, and reduced environmental impactWho Should Take This CourseThis course is designed for professionals who don’t just want to follow sustainability trends—they want to lead the charge. Perfect for:Architects and designers working toward net-zero, regenerative, or low-carbon standards and looking for actionable material alternativesBuilders, contractors, and consultants ready to integrate fire-resistant, cost-effective insulation and wall systems into real-world workflowsHousing authorities, developers, and nonprofit builders focused on sustainable, healthy materials for affordable housing initiativesFirms navigating ESG or LEED targets and seeking alternatives to conventional, carbon-heavy materials that no longer align with client valuesIf you’re done settling for “less bad” materials and ready to specify options that truly do good, this course is for you.Why It MattersThis is more than a sustainability credit. It’s a gateway into the next era of architecture—where buildings sequester carbon, protect occupants from toxins and fire, and support equitable, regenerative economies. Hemp isn’t the future. It’s here. The only question is whether your specs are keeping up.HSW Justification:This course qualifies for Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) credit based on its focus on sustainable construction materials and their direct impact on the well-being of building occupants. The course covers the use of hemp-based materials, particularly hempcrete, which contribute to health by improving indoor air quality and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals often found in conventional building materials. These materials also offer safety benefits by providing fire-resistant properties, reducing the risk of structural failures, and contributing to healthier, more resilient buildings. Furthermore, by promoting the use of renewable, locally sourced materials, the course aligns with welfare goals by supporting affordable housing projects and encouraging the use of sustainable, bio-based materials that help foster healthier, more equitable living environments for all communities. Through a deeper understanding of hemp's potential in construction, architects can better serve the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants and society at large.Take the Quiz for your CertificateAIA CES Provider statementGābl Media is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 10024977. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES ([email protected] or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product.AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.Mentioned in this episode:Gabl Membership