Healthy Buildings & Predictive Science with Dr. Christa Wright

Author

Charlie Cichetti
December 04, 2025

QUICK TAKE

How can we leverage research in toxicology and chemical safety to protect people as our buildings face hotter climates and evolving chemical risks?

Dr. Christa Wright from UL Research Institute’s Chemical Insights shares how predictive science, empathy in research, and bio-based solutions are shaping the future of healthier indoor environments.

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🌱BREAKING DOWN TRADITIONAL BUILDING

In this episode, Dr. Wright transforms how we think about healthy spaces — connecting human health, materials, and predictive modeling for a new era of safety science.

[Key Insight #1] Heat Affects Chemical Emissions Indoors

  • What's outdated: Building materials were not designed with today’s rising temperatures in mind.

  • The innovation: Research from Chemical Insights shows even a 2°F temperature rise can release higher levels of formaldehyde from certain building materials like paints, flooring, and drywall — prompting a call for research on the potential health impacts of these chemical emissions.

  • Impact: Healthier air, longer material lifespan, and proactive protection from climate-related indoor pollution.

[Key Insight #2] Partnerships are key to leveraging our research to make an impact.

  • What's outdated: To make a real difference, research needs to be translated to action.

  • The innovation: Chemical Insights works with partners to ensure our research is translated to meaningful action. For example, we partner with GBES to deliver educational resources, and our researchers are currently working with a nonprofit in New York to explore how hydroponic systems may improve indoor air quality in classrooms.

  • Impact: Research can be better translated into action to promote sustainability and wellness.

[Key Insight #3] Forecasting the Next Risk

  • What's outdated: Most safety research is reactive — waiting for harm before changing standards.

  • The innovation: Wright’s team uses predictive modeling, AI, and machine learning to forecast future chemical and environmental risks.

  • Impact: Risks can be forecasted before they cause harm.

♻️ YOUR GREEN BUILD CHALLENGE

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✅ CONNECT AND CONTINUE

🌿 Access full episode resources: Green Building Matters Podcast 

🗒 Read the transcript: HERE