“We are where we live as much as we are what we eat" - Alison Mears

Episode 14 - Out Now

Season 3 of The Green Route with MAREDI Design is here! We are launching into Episode 14 — be sure to check it out on your favorite streaming platform, such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify , or by clicking here.

For the debut of this new season, we had the privilege of speaking with Alison Mears, an architect, Associate Professor of Architecture, and the Director and Co-Founder of Healthy Materials Lab at Parsons School of Design. Alison has devoted her career to advancing sustainability within the built environment. Through the groundbreaking work of the Healthy Materials Lab, they are reshaping how we design and construct spaces, placing human health and environmental well-being at the forefront.

In our conversation, Alison delves into the origins of this transformative organization, its evolution into a leader in sustainability advocacy, and its impact on manufacturers and designers. She highlights how seemingly small changes—such as replacing toxic paints—can significantly influence public health and policy. Her insights challenge us to rethink not only what we build but also how and for whom we build it.

This discussion feels particularly significant for us, as the Healthy Materials Lab has profoundly shaped our design philosophy and even inspired the creation of this podcast. Whether you’re an architect, designer, or simply someone passionate about sustainability and health, this episode is filled with inspiration and actionable ideas. Join us as we explore how healthier building materials can create spaces that nurture both people and the planet.

And after you listen, don't forget to leave a review and let us know what you think, or share any takeaways that you have. If there are other topics around sustainability that you would like us to explore in future episodes, we would love to hear from you!

See you down the Green Route 😊