LBC Watch and Priority Lists
Living Building Challenge 4.0 introduced the LBC Watch and Priority Lists as part of the LBC CASRN Guide to improve communication and provide greater flexibility around future Red List updates.
The LBC Watch List identifies chemicals and compound groups that Living Future is actively researching for potential future inclusion on the Red List. This serves as an early signal to manufacturers and project teams about substances of concern. When a chemical is expected to advance to the Red List within approximately one year, it is moved from the Watch List to the Priority List.
To ensure adequate transition time, chemicals must be designated as “Priority for Red List Inclusion” for at least 12 months before they can be added to the Red List. This advance notice allows manufacturers to undertake research and development (R&D) efforts to phase out these substances and supports broader progress toward a healthier materials economy. Chemicals may remain on the Watch or Priority Lists for longer than 12 months as needed.
Both the Red List and the Watch and Priority Lists are reviewed and updated annually, with any changes to CASRNs released in the first quarter of each year.
Implications for Declare and Project Teams
Inclusion on the Watch or Priority List does not affect a Declare product’s Declaration Status, nor does it restrict project teams from using products that contain these chemicals. While Priority List chemicals are highlighted in light orange on Declare labels, the Red List remains the only enforceable screening list.
Project teams are required to follow the version of the Red List that is current at the time of project registration. CASRNs added to the Red List after registration do not affect a project’s compliance requirements or vetting scope.
However, because Red List updates reflect improved protection of human and environmental health, project teams may choose to adopt a more recent version of the Red List. If doing so, teams must clearly document the selected version and apply it consistently across all vetted materials.
Watch List CASRN numbers are intended solely as a forward-looking communication tool and do not impose additional vetting requirements on project teams.
Figure 13-1 Relationship of the LBC Watch List and the LBC Red List