Helsinki Sets New Standards for Chemical-Safe Construction Through Updated Building Material Guidelines

Helsinki, Finland – A NonHazCity3 (NHC3) pilot project is helping the City of Helsinki push the boundaries of sustainable construction by updating its building material instructions to better address hazardous substances. The initiative highlights how municipalities, as influential public buyers, can steer markets toward safer, more environmentally responsible solutions—exceeding national requirements and shaping long-term industry practices.

Before the pilot, Helsinki’s construction guidance already included requirements such as the national M1 Emission Standard for low-emission materials and CE markings for building products. However, the city recognized the need for clearer, more detailed, and future-oriented guidelines that integrate the NHC3 three-pillar approach: tox-free, circular, and climate-friendly construction.

The proposed revisions introduce stronger emphasis on chemical safety, including new rules such as:

• No use of materials containing SVHC substances (Substances of Very High Concern).
• Mandatory M1-classified materials for internal surfaces and fixed furniture.
• Preference for eco-labelled materials, including Nordic Swan, EU Ecolabel, or equivalent Type 1 third-party certifications.

These measures aim to reduce hazardous substances in public construction, safeguarding human health and the environment while encouraging responsible market development.

Throughout the NHC3 project, building certifications have proven valuable tools for municipalities seeking greener procurement procedures. Although full building certification is not always financially achievable, following certification criteria can still significantly improve sustainability outcomes. Helsinki evaluated existing certification systems and integrated relevant chemical safety criteria directly into its own municipal guidelines. Eco-labels—especially Nordic Swan and M1—served as important benchmarks for shaping the updated instructions.

To ensure that the new guidelines were both practical and justified, the city supported each proposed rule with factual evidence, referencing EU REACH regulation, known chemical risks, and benefits of third-party certified materials. Market availability and financial impacts were also assessed to ensure feasibility.

A market survey among architects and contractors provided additional insights. Although response rates were modest, the feedback revealed limited knowledge of SVHC substances in the sector, underscoring the need for increased communication, training, and awareness-raising on chemical safety in construction.

Helsinki’s pilot demonstrates how clear, evidence-based guidelines can drive more sustainable construction practices—promoting healthier indoor environments and reducing hazardous substances across municipal building projects.

Detailed best-practice descriptions and strategic recommendations can be found in NHC3 Output 2.2.

Programme Manual Online

Choose