Building materials are considered “green” if they reduce harm to the environment or human health, such as by improving energy efficiency, reducing the carbon footprint, or minimizing waste. Here’s a closer look at 10 popular sustainable building materials:
Certified Lumber
Lumber produced or harvested sustainably
Economic benefit: Often costs no more than alternatives
Uses: Framing, decking, flooring, cabinetry, etc.
Environmental benefit: Renewable, reusable, forests provide habitat for wildlife
Bamboo
Member of the grass family; can be alternative to timber
Economic benefit: Durable for being resistant to mold, mildew, insects
Uses: Flooring, fences, cabinetry
Environmental benefit: Renewable, performs as a carbon sink, needs few or no fertilizers and pesticides
Natural Stone
Used as building material since ancient times
Economic benefit: Durability makes it cost-effective over long term
Uses: From countertops/fireplaces indoors, to fencing/retaining walls outdoors
Environmental benefit: Nontoxic, promotes healthy indoor air, low embodied energy
Cellulose Insulation
Composed primarily (up to 85%) of recycled newspapers
Economic benefit: Reduces drafts and heat/AC leaks
Uses: Standard insulating material for frame homes
Environmental benefit: Recycled, energy efficient, nontoxic
Plastic Lumber
Alternative to traditional wood; resistant to rot/mold/mildew/water/insect infestation
Economic benefit: Virtually maintenance free
Uses: Decking, fencing, signage, retaining walls
Environmental benefit: Durable, recycled
Steel Studs
Provides exceptionally strong and stable framing for buildings
Economic benefit: Less material needed for structural integrity, fewer repairs, cheaper than wood
Uses: Commercial structures, popular choice for homes
Environmental benefit: Recyclable, low construction site waste
Perforated Metal
Panels come in variety of sizes, materials, thicknesses, colors, designs
Economic benefit: Lasts for generations, perforated screens or building facades decrease cooling and lighting requirements
Uses: Sun shades, building facades, railing systems, garage screening, decorative cladding, etc.
Environmental benefit: Up to 100% recycled, recyclable and indefinitely renewable, can help reduce building’s energy needs
Permeable Pavement
Lets water through, replenishing groundwater while reducing pooling, flooding and runoff
Economic benefit: Prevents water-related issues
Uses: Parking lots, sidewalks, driveways, patios
Environmental benefit: Protects surface and groundwater quality
Living Plants
Roofs/walls covered with vegetation
Economic benefit: Natural insulation; can counteract sick building syndrome (increasing productivity)
Uses: Homes, commercial and municipal buildings
Environmental benefit: Improves air quality, removes carbon dioxide from atmosphere, energy efficient
Solar Cells
Convert sunlight into electricity
Economic benefit: Reduces energy costs over long term; financial incentives (such as tax credits) often offered
Uses: Solar lighting, fans, panels, etc., on residential/commercial/government buildings
Environmental benefit: Produce emissions-free, clean energy
If you are looking for green design concepts and fabrication for your residential or commercial needs, take a look at the list of vendors offering Green Building Materials on the HUB
Thanks for the info from * Accurate Perforating Company, Inc.
