The default approach is characterized by 2x framing with OSB sheathing, building wrap, and foam board and spray foam insulations. Today, the shortcomings of this default approach are apparent. Foam insulations have high embodied energy, provide no CO2 sequestration, and have compromised moisture resilience. The toxicity of foam in manufacturing, occupancy, and disposal is problematic, as is the durability and chemical composition of OSB.

Worse is high-performance metal frame construction today, which is typically wrapped in foam insulation. It has little moisture tolerance, no sequestered carbon, and very high embodied energy.

Any carbon savings realized through operational energy efficiency will be unable to offset the embodied carbon produced during construction before the critical window of 2050. In other words, the building will be adding to the problem of climate change for more than 30 years. While the ambitions of this default construction are sincere, they are executed using the wrong toolbox and are creating more problems than solutions.