The notion that the architecture industry can continue relying on outdated materials and designs is flawed. Environmental concern is only going to continue to grow as air and water pollution, ozone layer depletion, loss of natural resources, and climate change continue to wreak havoc. The architecture and construction industry has an incredible effect on the environment as a whole, making the discussion about sustainable design and green materials important in practicing environmental responsibility.

 

While it is difficult to track down an exact number, as much as 75% of the natural resources harvested are used in construction. The United States alone produces close to 165 million tons of waste from construction and demolition. The amount of natural resources that go into building and the amount of waste that results is staggering. While reducing waste is key, one solution to lessening the strain on the environment is to opt for green materials whenever possible.

 

Among the greatest environmental concerns for the future are pollution of air, water, and land – and all are impacted by the construction industry.

 

The shift towards green materials is important to reduce all aspects of environmental pollution. Selecting green products that use sustainably-harvested natural materials reduces land pollution. Building materials that are free of toxins ensure that water and air aren't polluted during the manufacturing and construction processes. Green materials that are recyclable will give new life to a product that otherwise would end up as landfill. Some discarded eco-friendly products will break down naturally, rather than sitting for generations releasing toxins into the soil or, perhaps, never disintegrating.

 

There are certain materials that will always come from the environment, such as wood products. Wood is a traditional building material that is growing in popularity. Some believe the use of new wood products to be controversial as deforestation continues to increase. While it might not be possible to completely avoid the use of wood, there are greener options, like modified wood.

 

Modified wood siding and structural lumber is far denser than regular wood, yet remains a 100% pure wood product. It is improved through a process of thermal and non-toxic bio-liquid treatment. The original wood is only harvested from sustainable, new growth forests. These features make modified wood a more eco-conscious choice, allowing for the safe use of real wood and the waste from these products being recycled as easily as normal wood. Wood used structurally also helps avoid potential soil pollution or harm to human health from pressure-treated lumber.

 

The shift towards green materials in architecture also plays a role in more sustainable building designs. The use of high-quality, advanced building materials, even if they aren't necessarily green, can still help achieve a more environmentally-sound structure. The end result is a building that requires less energy use and is therefore less harmful to the environment. For example, insulated concrete forms (ICFs) still use regular concrete, but their improved design allows for buildings to be far more airtight and easier to thermally control. They help create a healthier environment for people and help protect the environment be reducing the energy required for a building to function.

 

The future of architecture will be one that is characterized by modern, sustainable designs and strategic use of green materials. Both material selection and architectural design go hand in hand, with one relying on the other to create the most efficient building possible. The United States is slightly behind in the move towards green buildings – many European countries already have a significant number of buildings designed to function passively and with as little negative effect on the environment as possible. A number of the advanced green materials on the market originate in these countries, though it won't be long before more manufacturers of sustainable products are stateside.

 

 

Matt Lee is a content marketing specialist serving building material manufacturers. His focus is on sustainable architecture and eco-friendly building materials.