Wildfire Season Has Become a Business Risk Every Facility and CRE Leader Should Plan For in 2026

Wildfire season strains buildings and people. See how facilities can prepare in 2026 to reduce costs, protect tenants, and build resilience.

Ava Montini

Mar 11, 2026

Written by

Published on

The Business Side of Smoke Days

When wildfire smoke drifts into a region, the strain on buildings is both immediate and multi-layered. Filters load faster, pushing fans to use more power just to keep airflow steady (EPA). As systems deviate, alarms trigger more frequently, and maintenance teams are pulled from planned tasks into reactive changeouts (Facility Executive). Meanwhile, vendors across the region see surging demand; parts and pads that usually arrive in days might take a week or more (NC State). That delay alone can unravel even the most rigorously planned preventive maintenance schedules.

Inside the building, occupants feel a different side of the same event. They note scratchy throats, irritated eyes, or rooms that feel stale or “heavier” when fresh air intake is reduced (AirNow). They see Air Quality Index alerts on their phones and news headlines escalating (EPA AQI). In those moments, the question is no longer just whether systems are responding, it’s: Is the building protecting me? When communication is missing or unclear, perception can trump technical measures, tipping the balance from confidence to complaints (BOMA).

Why It Matters More in 2026

The stakes are rising. Multiple studies show that during wildfire events, indoor air can reach one-third to three-quarters of outdoor particulate concentrations in buildings lacking robust mitigation (PMC). Residential buildings in fire-affected areas have shown infiltration ratios reflective of this risk (PMC). In some wildfire-impacted care environments, indoor concentrations have peaked near 200 µg/m³ (NCBI). In contrast, well-configured filtration systems often reduce that exposure to roughly 43% of outdoor levels, showing how effectively mitigation can work (NCCEH).

The human health impacts are significant. Fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) is linked to asthma flare-ups, reduced lung function, and cardiovascular stress (EPA). Sensitive populations (children, older adults, and those with pre-existing conditions) are most at risk (CDC). However, research also shows that even healthy adults are not immune to short-term exposure (PubMed). Harvard-led studies estimate that wildfire smoke has caused over 15,000 premature deaths in the U.S. in recent decades, with an associated economic burden of $160 billion (Harvard). For employers and property leaders, this translates into absenteeism, healthcare costs, and measurable productivity loss (National Bureau of Economic Research).

At the same time, smoke is a mechanical stressor. It accelerates filter clogging, pushes fans outside their normal operating range, and drives up energy consumption (ScienceDirect). Facility executives consistently report higher unplanned maintenance costs during wildfire season, along with shortened asset life for critical HVAC equipment (Facility Executive). Viewed at scale, these costs ripple upward into operational budgets and capital planning, making smoke days not just a maintenance issue but a financial liability.

What Smoke Events Do to Commercial HVAC Systems

Wildfire smoke can be seen as just “dirty air", but to get deeper, it is a dense mix of ultrafine particles, ash, organic compounds, and combustion byproducts that behave differently from typical urban pollution.

When these particles enter HVAC systems, three operational challenges occur simultaneously:

Rapid filter loading and front loading: Fine smoke particles quickly accumulate on the front face of filter media rather than distributing evenly through the depth of the filter. This “front loading” effect increases resistance to airflow much faster than normal particulate loading.
Fan energy increases: As pressure across the filter bank rises, fans must work harder to maintain airflow.
Airflow imbalance: Systems designed for stable pressure conditions may struggle to maintain balanced ventilation across zones.

During heavy smoke events, these mechanical effects can compound quickly. What begins as a minor filtration issue can cascade into comfort complaints, airflow deviations, and unexpected service calls.

Rethinking Preparedness

Preparedness today requires more than having spare filters in storage. Facilities that treat smoke season as part of their risk portfolio are proving more resilient. Research shows that buildings operating with lower baseline pressure drops have more headroom when smoke events occur, allowing systems to maintain airflow without tipping into alarm states (ScienceDirect). Forward-looking teams also map their most critical zones (like labs, classrooms, care units, or executive suites) and prioritize them during smoke events, an approach recommended in EPA guidance for schools and commercial buildings (EPA).

Another resilience factor is vendor readiness. Case studies after the 2020 smoke season showed that supply chain bottlenecks caused delays of days to weeks in replacing filters and components, leaving unprepared facilities exposed (NC State). Facilities that negotiated priority contracts in advance were able to maintain schedules even during regional demand surges. Similarly, using AQI forecasts and on-site PM₂.₅ sensors has been shown to improve response times; by acting early, facilities reduce exposure and minimize tenant complaints (PMC).

Wildfire readiness also intersects with broader sustainability and ESG commitments. Poor indoor air quality during smoke events undermines health-related certifications like WELL and LEED, while higher fan energy use increases a building’s carbon footprint (USGBC; IWBI). Integrating smoke resilience into ESG strategies provides measurable benefits for investors and stakeholders while demonstrating a proactive approach to tenant wellness.

Three Questions Facility Leaders Should Ask Before Smoke Season

Forward-looking facility teams increasingly treat wildfire smoke the same way they treat winter storms or heat waves: as a seasonal operational risk.

Before wildfire season begins, three questions can help identify vulnerabilities:

1. How much airflow headroom does the HVAC system have?

Buildings operating near maximum pressure limits may struggle when filters load rapidly during smoke events.

2. Are replacement filters and components secured in advance?

Regional smoke events often trigger sudden demand spikes, delaying shipments and increasing costs.

3. Are response protocols clearly defined?

Teams should know when to increase filtration, adjust outdoor air intake, and communicate with tenants.

Facilities that answer these questions early often respond faster and maintain better building performance during smoke days.

The Bottom Line

Facilities without strong preparedness can see indoor pollutant levels rise to 75% of outdoor concentrations during wildfire events, while prepared buildings cut that exposure nearly in half (NCCEH). Harvard-led analyses estimate that wildfire smoke causes tens of billions of dollars in annual economic damage, largely through absenteeism and healthcare costs (Harvard). From a mechanical standpoint, smoke accelerates filter clogging, forces fans to operate at higher energy use, and shortens asset lifespan, driving up costs across operations and capital planning (Facility Executive).

The buildings that are prepared today will reduce alarms, complaints, and unplanned expenses tomorrow, while earning the trust of the people inside. Tenants will remember which buildings felt steady, cared for, and resilient when the outside air was anything but.

What are Eco-Friendly Building Materials?

Jennifer Crowley
Aug 2, 2023
3 min read

Updated: Jul 8, 2024

Image of an office building surrounded by lush trees housed within triangular greenhouse wall panels - giving the illusion that the building sits within a greenhouse — Sustainable construction practices not only benefit the environment but also offer economic advantages, such as reduced operating costs, increased property value, and improved occupant satisfaction.

Eco-friendly building materials, also known as sustainable or green building materials, are those that are sourced, manufactured, used, and disposed of in a manner that minimizes harm to the environment and human health. These materials are carefully chosen to reduce the ecological footprint of buildings throughout their lifecycle, from construction to operation and eventual demolition or deconstruction. The aim is to create structures that are energy-efficient, resource-efficient, and environmentally responsible.

The Importance of Sustainable Construction Practices

The construction industry significantly contributes to environmental degradation, consuming vast amounts of energy and resources while generating substantial waste and greenhouse gas emissions. By embracing sustainable practices, such as incorporating eco-friendly materials, optimizing energy performance, implementing efficient water management systems, and adopting environmentally responsible construction methods, the industry can significantly reduce its impact on the planet.

Sustainable construction practices not only benefit the environment but also offer economic advantages, such as reduced operating costs, increased property value, and improved occupant satisfaction. Moreover, they align with evolving regulations, green building certifications, and the growing demand for environmentally conscious buildings from consumers, businesses, and governments.

Benefits of Eco-Friendly Building Materials

Reduced environmental impact and carbon footprint: One of the primary benefits of eco-friendly building materials is their ability to significantly reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprint associated with construction projects.

Energy efficiency and improved insulation: Eco-friendly building materials are known for their excellent energy efficiency properties. They help create well-insulated structures that can reduce the need for excessive heating, cooling, and artificial lighting.

Health benefits for occupants: Eco-friendly materials are designed to be low or non-toxic, ensuring cleaner indoor environments. For instance, using natural paints and finishes that are free from harmful chemicals can improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory issues and allergies.

Cost-effectiveness and long-term savings: While eco-friendly building materials may sometimes have higher upfront costs compared to traditional materials, they offer long-term savings and cost-effectiveness.

Promoting a greener and more sustainable future: By utilizing eco-friendly building materials, the construction industry plays a crucial role in promoting a greener and more sustainable future.

Examples of Eco-Friendly Building Materials

Types of Eco-Friendly Building Materials:

Recycled Materials
Renewable Materials
Low-Impact Materials

Non-Toxic Materials

Bamboo: A versatile and sustainable option Bamboo is a remarkable eco-friendly building material known for its strength, versatility, and rapid growth. Unlike traditional timber, bamboo reaches maturity within 3-5 years, making it an easily renewable resource. Its impressive tensile strength and durability make it an excellent choice for various applications.

Cork: A renewable resource with excellent insulation properties- Cork is another sustainable material from the bark of cork oak trees. Harvesting cork does not harm the trees, as the bark naturally regenerates. This makes cork a highly renewable resource.

Recycled Steel: Reducing energy consumption and waste recycled steel is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional steel production. Using scrap or salvaged steel reduces the need for energy-intensive extraction and refining processes.

Natural Insulation: Wool, cellulose, and straw natural insulation materials offer a sustainable alternative to traditional insulation options. Wool insulation, derived from sheep’s wool, is an excellent thermal insulator that is renewable, biodegradable and requires low energy input during production. Cellulose insulation, made from recycled paper or plant fibres, effectively reduces heat transfer and is often used in attics and walls. Straw bale construction utilizes straw as a building material, providing natural insulation while using a byproduct of grain production.

Solar Panels and Energy-Efficient Windows: Harnessing renewable energy. While not strictly building materials, solar panels and energy-efficient windows play a crucial role in sustainable building design. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Energy-efficient windows incorporate advanced glazing technologies that minimize heat transfer.

Recycled Glass: Today, about 27 percent of manufactured glass is recycled. Mixing recycled glass with fly ash creates a concrete-like substance perfect for blocks, panels or construction moulds. You can transform any excess glass into countertops, backsplash, tile and even colourful pebbles for your yard called glass mulch. Opting for recycled glass instead of traditional glass reduces related water pollution by 50 percent and air pollution by 20 percent.

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