Project Title: Material Futures: Advancing Regional Bio-Based Infrastructure Strategies in the Northeast

MASS Design Group

Details
Project Title Material Futures: Advancing Regional Bio-Based Infrastructure Strategies in the Northeast
Project Topics Civil Engineering Corporate Social Responsibility Growth Strategy Innovation Purchasing, Logistics, Supply Chain Research, Analysis, Evaluation Strategic Planning Sustainability & ESG Urban Planning
Skills & Expertise
Project Synopsis: Challenge/Opportunity
Our cities are reliant on global, extractive supply chains that are often environmentally destructive and economically inefficient. As part of MASS Design Group’s Abundant Futures Design Lab initiative, this project will focus specifically on identifying and reimagining the building material metabolism of the Northeast. The goal is to evaluate a shift toward bio-based materials that are low-carbon, regionally sourced, and regenerative, while still meeting future development demands.
Project Synopsis: Activities/Actions Required
  • Map the current materials used in buildings in two archetype cities in the Northeast.
  • Analyze sourcing pathways, ecological impact, and waste patterns for these materials.
  • Forecast material needs under expected future development scenarios.
  • Extrapolate the material needs from the scale of the city to the Northeast.
  • Identify alternative regional material sources that support circular, low-carbon development.
  • Evaluate the impact of these alternative regional material sources.
  • Propose implementation strategies and precedent models for sustainable material transitions.
Project Synopsis: Expected Results
  • Completion of a materials audit for the Northeast that reveals current dependencies and environmental costs.
  • Forecasted expected material demand across the Northeast.
  • Viable alternative materials and sourcing strategies documented and aligned with planetary boundaries.
  • Final recommendations that influence local policy, procurement, or design strategies.

Project Timeline

Touchpoints & Assignments Date Type

Program Kickoff

Sep 12 2026 Event

Teams

Team Name  Project Name  Team Members 
No Teams Available