Top 5 Sustainable Materials used in Construction

30 Apr Top 5 Sustainable Materials used in Construction

At PCS during the Earth Month we have highlighted the importance of caring for our planet, finding a way of life and economy that is sustainable for all species and stop the damage we’ve done so far. Architecture, fortunately, is one of the sectors that has been evolving step by step in this direction.

The use of eco-sustainable materials that do not have a negative impact on the environment and contribute to the recycling and use of resources is now widely promoted. The use of these materials also reduces working times, minimize waste and has an even higher performance than materials used in the past.  

Here are 5 sustainable materials used in construction today: 

1. Bamboo

   Considered as vegetable steel, it is light and flexible, but has superior strength to hardwoods such as oak or mahogany. It is considered sustainable because it grows quickly and abundantly, between one and five years depending on the species and can be grown anywhere in the world, does not require chemicals or pesticides.
   In addition, Bamboo has the beneficial property of absorbing greenhouse gases, and produces more oxygen than other plants. It is used to build scaffolding, bridges and some structures in buildings or houses. 

2. Recycled plastic

   It is a material of easy handling and quick installation, helps reduce carbon emissions and the energy generated in its processing to produce other materials.
   Structurally, concrete mixed with recycled plastic achieves a stronger material than traditional concrete. In addition, bricks made from recycled plastic are easier to install, making construction times faster and more efficient. 

3. Sheepwool

   It is used as a thermal and acoustic insulator, resistant to moisture and is also biodegradable.
   In the very near future, sheep wool panels are intended to replace fibreglass and polyurethane panels as they require less energy for their manufacture and have no toxic components.

4. Ecological paint

They are made from pigments extracted from elements in nature; such as tree bark, plants, minerals and beeswax. Thus guaranteeing the purity of its components. Therefore, they are biodegradable, not charged with electrostatic and are easy to renew.
In the case of mineral pigments, iron oxide, carbon, zinc, copper or clay are used. The plant tones come from indigo, alizarin carmine, cochineal, purple draught among others. 

5. Terrazzo

   “Terrazzo” is a material that comes from waste marble, glass or granite mixed with cement bases. You get a tile applicable to floors and walls. They have great durability and resistance to water and abrasive agents. 

Source: Punto Sustentable