In today’s built environment, every material choice sends a message. It impacts not just the functionality and aesthetics of a space, but also the health of the people inside it and the long-term wellness of our planet. As awareness around material transparency, toxicity, and embodied carbon grows, specifiers, architects, and designers are being called to make more conscious, sustainable choices.

Healthier Spaces Begin with Healthier Materials

Indoor environments can either support or compromise human health. From VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions in finishes to toxic flame retardants in textiles, the materials used in commercial buildings directly influence indoor air quality, cognitive function, and overall well-being. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, making material health a non-negotiable factor in design.

Specifying materials vetted for chemical safety — such as those certified by Declare, Cradle to Cradle, or GREENGUARD — helps ensure that building occupants aren't unknowingly exposed to harmful substances. These certifications also help meet WELL Building Standard and LEED v4.1 requirements, offering measurable benefits to health-centric commercial design.

The Ripple Effect on Planetary Health

The story doesn’t end with what’s inside the walls. The extraction, manufacturing, transportation, and disposal of building materials are among the largest contributors to global carbon emissions. Embodied carbon from building materials is responsible for 11% of total global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the World Green Building Council.

Prioritizing low-embodied carbon products, recycled or upcycled content, and renewable resource-based options can reduce a project’s environmental impact dramatically. Thoughtful material selection isn’t just good for people — it’s essential for the planet.

Where AMBI Comes In

At AMBI, we simplify sustainable decision-making for commercial building projects. Our platform highlights vetted product options that meet both human health and planetary wellness criteria—without sacrificing performance or aesthetic integrity. From high-performance acoustic panels to FSC-certified wood products, our curated catalog helps design and procurement teams deliver on sustainability goals while preserving design intent.

We partner with innovative manufacturers who are committed to transparency, circularity, and impact. Whether you’re aiming for LEED certification or simply want to create better spaces, AMBI provides the access, tools, and support to help you get there.

Better buildings start with better materials. And better materials start with access, education, and tools. That’s the AMBI difference. Explore our vetted materials now and discover how easy sustainable sourcing can be.