NonHazCity3 Survey Shows Strong Progress in Tox-Free Construction

A stakeholder survey conducted within the NonHazCity3 project shows that the initiative has significantly strengthened capacity for tox-free and more sustainable construction across the Baltic Sea Region.

The survey collected feedback from around 150 respondents, including municipalities, public authorities, architects, NGOs, researchers and construction professionals. The results show that the project improved knowledge, introduced practical tools and supported new procedures for reducing hazardous substances in the built environment.

A large majority of respondents reported gaining new knowledge and skills related to hazardous substances in construction materials, their impacts on indoor environments and ecosystems, and ways to reduce these risks through safer material choices and procurement practices. Many also highlighted a better understanding of how chemical safety connects with circular construction and climate goals.

The survey further shows that many organisations adopted or tested project tools, including the NonHazCity Building Materials Catalogue, the Step-by-Step Guide for tox-free construction and renovation, the CheckED application, and training materials. These resources helped stakeholders apply complex information in practical planning and decision-making.

Respondents also reported changes in procedures and workflows, especially through the stronger integration of chemical criteria into procurement, design and project planning. In addition, the project improved cooperation between environmental experts, procurement teams, construction units and sustainability staff.

Overall, the survey confirms that NonHazCity3 made an important contribution to institutional capacity building by improving knowledge, promoting practical tools, strengthening procedures and encouraging cross-sector cooperation.

The full summary of the stakeholder survey can be read here.Survey summary

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