In this episode of Sustainably Speaking, host Mia Quinn explores innovations in sustainable architecture with guests Heidi Kujawa and Jordan Goldman. Heidi, CEO of ByFusion, discusses their innovative approach to using plastic waste to create building materials, highlighting the need to reduce environmental impact. Jordan Goldman, Engineering Principal of Zero Energy Design, sheds light on the challenges and opportunities in designing high-performance, energy-efficient homes, emphasizing the value of long-term thinking.
Our guests on this episode unpack sustainability efforts in the building industry brick by brick. Heidi Kujawa explains how ByFusion converts plastic waste into usable building blocks, addressing two critical issues simultaneously: waste management and infrastructure demands. ByBlock, their solution, offers a scalable way to reuse plastic while supporting sustainable construction principles. Heidi emphasizes the simplicity of the process and the growing demand for energy efficient building materials.
We’ll also hear from Jordan Goldman, who shares insights into designing high-performance, energy-efficient homes. He discusses the challenges of balancing cost and long-term sustainability, with a focus on reducing energy demand and fossil fuel usage. Jordan stresses the heightened focus on such construction, driven by climate change awareness and highlights the need for an inclusive, holistic approach to building materials.
We’ll also hear about the ongoing evolution of sustainable architecture and the necessity of collective action in addressing environmental challenges.
On This Episode:
Heidi Kujawa, CEO, ByFusion
Heidi is an award-winning software architect, has an unwavering passion for construction and the environment, and is a fierce problem solver. In addition to a successful 20-year career in technology, she also ran a successful real property development company for over a decade, where she led the investment strategy and oversaw design and construction. She holds a BA in management and is PMP certified.
Jordan Goldman, Engineering Principal, ZeroEnergy Design
Jordan Goldman is a specialist in energy modeling, mechanical engineering, and manages the HVAC design practice for ZeroEnergy Design. He is fluent in building envelope strategies and energy efficient construction systems, building science design principles, as well as mechanical system design, specification, and sizing for enhanced energy performance. Additionally, he is experienced in sizing and specifying renewable energy systems, such as photovoltaics and solar hot water. Jordan has been recognized by the EPA for his achievement in systems design for green buildings and has been featured on NPR. He is a Certified Passive House Consultant. Jordan studied Environmental Engineering at Cornell University, where he received both a Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering.
Mia Quinn, Senior Director, Public Affairs at American Chemistry Council
Mia Quinn leads efforts to communicate the plastics industry’s major sustainability initiatives. She works to bring together experts to share insights in key areas of sustainability, including public policy, product design, recycling, and infrastructure.
She is passionate about collaboration, clear communication, and engaging audiences to learn more about innovation and modern solutions for our communities and our country.
Mia has a degree in political science from Washington University in St. Louis. She grew up in the suburbs of Denver, Colorado and is a lifelong Denver Broncos fan. She lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and two sons.
