Now that many people are aware of sustainability, selecting environmentally friendly materials for buildings is increasingly becoming a priority. Sustainable materials like wood and bamboo support energy conservation and less carbon emission and provide more long-term functional and aesthetic benefits.
This article will review some sustainable building materials that can be used to build or renovate sustainable and beautiful buildings. Find building material options that are not only good for the earth but also enrich the design and comfort of your space below!
Why Is It Important to Use Sustainable Building Materials?
Sustainable building materials are safe for the environment and health. These materials are produced to save natural resources, reduce waste, and minimize the negative impact on the environment.
In recent years, the use of eco-friendly materials has become increasingly widespread because of environmental impact and benefits for humans. Here are some reasons why you need to use sustainable building materials:
- Reduce carbon emissions: The construction industry is a major contributor to carbon emissions. Conventional building materials, such as concrete and steel, produce a lot of carbon dioxide, while natural materials are more eco-friendly.
- Minimize construction waste: The use of environmentally friendly materials contributes to the reduction of construction waste. Their recyclable or biodegradable characteristics help reduce the burden on landfills and protect the ecosystem.
- Conserve natural resources: Conventional building materials generally consume non renewable natural resources. In contrast, eco-friendly building materials often come from renewable resources; thus, helping to preserve the environment.
- Maintain healthy indoor air: Sustainable building materials are safer because they produce fewer toxic substances, making the air inside the house fresher.
- More energy efficient: Sustainable building materials have good thermal insulation properties, reducing the need for HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems and reducing energy consumption.
- Reduce health risks: Some conventional building materials contain harmful chemical compounds that can trigger health problems. On the other hand, sustainable building materials are generally safer and do not contain these substances.
Read also: Building an Elegant House using Natural Building Material
The Examples of Sustainable Building Materials
The construction industry keeps innovating with sustainable building materials. These materials are not only from renewable resources but also processed cleanly and efficiently. Below are some examples of sustainable building materials that you can utilize:
1. Wood
Compared to steel and concrete, wood can be an eco-friendly alternative because the manufacturing process does not need much energy. Moreover, utilizing wood will make your building more fresh and natural; therefore, becoming healthier and more aesthetic.
2. Bamboo
Bamboo becomes a more sustainable material alternative rather than wood. It has great strength, rapid growth, and durability against earthquakes, making it a captivating material option. By using bamboo, you are not only building a home but also contributing to the nature preservation.
3. Straw
Contrary to conventional material, straw provides a unique advantage. Straw is durable against earthquakes and pests. Not only that, straw has better insulating properties so it can reduce energy consumption for air conditioning or heating.
4. Recycled Steel
Steel is one of the building materials that has many benefits due to its durability. Usually, this material is used to build bridges, railways, tunnels, and others. If you want to continue using steel while reducing carbon emissions, then consider using recycled steel. That way, you can reduce waste and save more money.
Read also: 3 Recycled Material Applications for Construction
5. Cork
Cork is a natural renewable and eco-friendly material you can use. Since it is renewable and sustainable, it can reduce the negative impact on the Earth. Its fire-resistant, waterproof, and thermal insulation properties make it a safer and more efficient choice. In addition, cork is also elastic and durable so it can be used for a long time.
6. Hempcrete
Hempcrete is a composite made of hemp and limestone. This material has a low density, but offers high strength, making it suitable for use as a building material. Hempcrete is considered environmentally friendly because its raw materials are easily available and can rapidly grow.
7. Wool
Wool is a natural, renewable, and biodegradable material that can reduce the negative impact on the environment. With its properties and ability to improve indoor air quality, you can build a healthier and safer home.
8. EPS
Expanded Polystyrene or EPS is an insulation material used to create sandwich panels. Being lightweight and rigid, EPS becomes an effective and energy-saving thermal isolation, Moreover, EPS is a great waterproof material for building.
9. GRC Board
GRC board or glass-reinforced concrete board is a construction material popular for its strength, weather durability, and flexible design. This cement composite and glass fiber material can be used to build facades due to its flexibility, which you can shape according to your desired model.
10. Compacted Soil
Another environmentally friendly material is compacted soil. The technique of compacting soil has been used since ancient times as a construction method.
By compacting the soil within a wooden frame, you can create walls that have the same strength and durability as conventional concrete. Furthermore, buildings made from this natural material tend to have cooler temperatures and a more aesthetic appearance.
Those are some examples of sustainable building materials you can utilize for your building. By choosing the right materials, you not only help preserve nature but also create a healthier and more sustainable space.
One important material to be considered is eco-friendly cement with low carbon emissions. Regarding this, you can use Semen Merah Putih Flexiplus, Durapro, and Ecopro.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, Semen Merah Putih Flexiplus has higher strength, ease of workability, and dries faster. Likewise, Durapro has resistance to sulfate, low hydration heat, and lower CO2 emissions. Meanwhile, Semen Merah Putih Ecopro can reduce the risk of carbonation.
Those three products are designed to support sustainable construction by reducing the negative impact on the environment. With top quality, these cements are not only eco-friendly but also durable and strong.
If you are interested in using Semen Merah Putih products, contact us now and get detailed information. We will help you actualize the construction project to be more efficient and lower carbon emissions.
