Sustainable building materials are eco-friendly and contribute to energy efficiency. Many also have insulating properties that help regulate indoor temperature and reduce utility costs.
Some examples include adobe brick made from clay and straw; Bendable Concrete, which uses recycled materials to resist cracking; and Mycelium, the root-like structure of fungi that can be used as insulation. Other examples are wood-based products, recycled glass and cork.
Hempcrete
Hempcrete is a sustainable building material with a wide range of uses. It is a non-toxic alternative to concrete that requires very little energy to manufacture. It is carbon negative and locks up more carbon per hectare than most trees can, making it an ideal renewable resource.
It is also extremely breathable, which helps control humidity and condensation risk in high-performance buildings. Its alkaline nature prevents the growth of mold spores. The mix is usually mixed in-situ with a pan mixer, and care is taken to keep dust to a minimum to protect the health of the builders.
It can be used to replace concrete in non-structural sections of walls, cutting down on waste that currently accounts for up to 8% of construction debris. It can also help reduce pressure on forests worldwide by replacing timber framing, helping to cut back on the 15 billion trees that are lost each year.
Recycled Steel
While energy efficiency and sustainability have been top of mind for facility professionals for years, many are recognizing that steel is an excellent sustainable building material. Steel framing is an environmentally friendly construction choice because it conserves materials and does not compromise the structural integrity of a building.
Additionally, a commercial structure framed in steel can be recycled in the future. The steel can be melted and transformed into new beams and structures without losing any of its strength.
In addition, a fabricated steel frame requires less energy to produce than a wood-framed building. This is a significant advantage as it can save the company money and reduce its carbon footprint. Additionally, steel framing is non-combustible and does not grow mold or succumb to insect infestations like other traditional building materials.
Reclaimed Wood
Reclaimed wood is one of the most popular sustainable building materials for homes and commercial structures. It has an elegant look that can add character and charm to any space. In addition, it is eco-friendly and helps to mitigate deforestation.
Wood products have low embodied carbon, meaning they create fewer greenhouse gas emissions when produced than most other materials, and they continue to store the carbon absorbed by trees during their growth. It is also renewable and contributes to energy efficiency and biophilic design.
When selecting reclaimed lumber, it is important to ensure that the material is locally sourced. This will help to reduce transportation-related emissions and support local economies. It is also important to choose a reputable supplier that will understand and appreciate the unique characteristics of the wood, including color variations, weathering, and history.
Straw Bale
Straw bales are a sustainable building material that is environmentally friendly and cost-effective. They provide excellent insulation and are suitable for use in a variety of climates. They also offer acoustic properties that help to limit noise. Additionally, straw bale buildings are usually quieter during construction, which can make communication easier on a building site.
Strawbale structures can be either load bearing or non-load bearing. Load-bearing straw bale houses are often constructed with a structural timber frame. The straw bales are then used as infill walls to achieve the desired shape and form of a house.
During the building process, it’s important to plaster the straw bales using a vapor-permeable material. This will help to avoid moisture accumulation, which can cause mold and rot. It’s also important to have a drainage system in place.
Rammed Earth
Rammed earth is a time-tested building technique that involves compacting a mixture of soil and clay between sturdy forms. It is an excellent sustainable building material because it’s energy efficient and has a low environmental impact.
It’s also non-toxic, fire resistant, and resistant to termite damage. In addition, rammed earth is inherently soundproof.
When using rammed earth, look for a contractor or builder who specializes in this type of construction. This will ensure that they have the necessary skills and experience to deliver high-quality results. Also, be sure to perform regular inspections to identify any potential problems and keep the building in good condition. Additionally, it’s important to work with a contractor or builder who is knowledgeable about local regulations and requirements. This can help ensure that the building meets local codes and requirements for energy efficiency.
Aerated Concrete
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) is a green building material that offers several benefits. It takes less energy to produce than traditional concrete and has insulating qualities that help cut down on energy costs. It also resists fire, making it an ideal option for structures in areas prone to wildfires.
The material’s porous nature allows it to absorb air, which helps maintain consistent temperatures throughout a space. This can significantly reduce the need for HVAC systems to work overtime, cutting down on energy consumption and cost.
Aerated concrete also resists mold, mildew and termites. It is strong enough to be used for load-bearing walls and can be finished with gypsum plasters or mineral finishes. It is also easy to work with, as the cellular structure makes it easily cut, shaved and shaped.
Earth Blocks
While earth might seem like an unlikely choice for building materials, it can offer a durable, sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional construction. Compressed Earth Blocks (CEB) are made from a mixture of local soil and non-expansive clay that can be stabilized with cement or sand.
CEB machines can be used to press the mixture into brick-shaped blocks that are easy to build with. The resulting blocks are regular-sized and require less mortar than sun-dried adobe walls, reducing overall building costs.
In addition, the blocks can be cured on site, further reducing construction and operational costs. The material is also environmentally friendly, with low embodied energy and a lower carbon footprint than conventional bricks. It can even be made to be carbon neutral.