There are a lot of things that you need to take into consideration when working on a green construction project. We talked about some of them in our article on green construction trends, but there are some other things we didn’t delve into. One of the most important things that you need to do is make sure that you understand how to keep the project on schedule. This is one of the ways that working on a green construction project is the same as working on any other.

Managing complex construction projects requires more than just a good idea and a dedicated team. Even the best-planned projects can fall apart without an efficient and reliable schedule.

This is where the DCMA 14-Point Schedule Assessment for construction comes in. Designed to ensure a robust project schedule, this tool has become indispensable in government contracts and the private construction sector.

What You’ll Learn

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• What the DCMA 14-Point Schedule Assessment is, and why it’s important
• A detailed overview of each of the 14 points
• Tips for meeting the assessment criteria
• How compliance can benefit your construction projects

Whether you’re just hearing about this for the first time or want to refine your approach, this guide will ensure you work smarter, not harder, with your project schedules. This is going to be especially important if you are creating an energy efficient building.

Why Is the DCMA 14-Point Schedule Assessment Important?

The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) developed the 14-Point Schedule Assessment to evaluate the quality and reliability of project schedules, primarily for defense contracting. However, its structured methodology has since been widely adopted in other industries, including construction, where projects are often large, complex, and time-sensitive.

A project schedule directly impacts your ability to manage resources, meet deadlines, and keep your budget in check. Poor scheduling leads to missed deadlines, costly delays, and unnecessary headaches. By leveraging the DCMA 14-Point assessment, construction managers can ensure their schedules are logical, achievable, and resilient to risks.

Breaking Down the DCMA 14-Point Schedule Assessment

The assessment is built around 14 key criteria. Together, these points ensure that project schedules are both sound and realistic. Let’s look at each one in detail:

Point 1: Logic

• What It Means: Every task in the schedule must make logical sense, with clearly defined predecessors and successors.
• Why It Matters: Illogical schedules disrupt workflow and create confusion in task execution.

Point 2: Leads and Lags

• What It Means: Limits the use of leads (time overlaps) and lags (time delays between tasks).
• Why It Matters: Excessive leads or lags can mask scheduling problems and create unrealistic timelines.

Point 3: Relationship Types

• What It Means: Ensures tasks are linked appropriately, focusing on “finish-to-start” relationships, which are the most practical.
• Pro Tip: Analyze dependencies and eliminate unnecessary “start-to-start” or “finish-to-finish” links to simplify your schedule.

Point 4: Hard Constraints

• What It Means: Reduces fixed task dates that may reduce schedule flexibility.
• Why It Matters: Too many hard constraints prevent the schedule from adapting to changes.

Point 5: High Float

• What It Means: Ensures tasks don’t have excessive amounts of unused time (referred to as “float”).
• Why It Matters: High float can be a sign of inefficiencies or inaccurate timing estimates.

Point 6: Negative Float

• What It Means: Ensures no task has negative float values, which suggest scheduling conflicts.
• Why It Matters: A negative float can indicate an unrealistic schedule that will miss deadlines.

Point 7: High Duration

• What It Means: Points out tasks with durations that are too long, which could increase risks.
• Pro Tip: Break down long tasks into smaller segments to improve tracking and adaptability.

Point 8: Invalid Dates

• What It Means: Ensures all dates in the schedule are valid and fall within project timelines.
• Why It Matters: Invalid or unrealistic dates jeopardize trust in the entire schedule.

Point 9: Resources

• What It Means: Verifies that all tasks have proper labor, equipment, or material resources assigned to them.
• Pro Tip: Revisit resource allocations during updates to avoid overloading key personnel or teams.

Point 10: Missed Tasks

• What It Means: Checks for tasks that are past their deadlines or incomplete without valid justification.
• Why It Matters: Missed tasks indicate poor management or inadequate preplanning.

Point 11: Critical Path Test

• What It Means: Evaluates whether the schedule’s critical path is accurate, with every key step properly linked.
• Why It Matters: A faulty critical path disrupts project timelines. Fixing it ensures clarity on what’s most crucial.

Point 12: Critical Path Length Index (CPLI)

• What It Explores: Analyzes how realistic the critical path schedule is in relation to remaining work.
• Why It Matters: CPLI values below 1 indicate scheduling delays or overly optimistic plans.

Point 13: Baseline Execution Index (BEI)

• What It Measures: An index that determines how closely you’re adhering to the original project baseline.
• Why It Matters: A low BEI highlights delays and deviations from project commitments.

Point 14: Schedule Risk Analysis

• What It Covers: Identifies risks and uncertainties within the current schedule using statistical methods.
• Pro Tip: Incorporate contingency measures to address high-risk areas.

Practical Tips for Meeting the Assessment Criteria

Navigating these 14 points might seem daunting, but here are some tips to ease the process:

• Use Software Tools: Utilize tools like Planera for automated logic analysis. 
• Review Weekly: Set up regular weekly or bi-weekly reviews to keep tabs on your schedule’s health.
• Communicate Clearly: Ensure that you communicate with project stakeholders. Transparency ensures everyone’s on the same page.

Benefits of Adopting the DCMA 14-Point Schedule Assessment

Why go through all this effort? The benefits are undeniable:

• Improved Efficiency: High-quality schedules eliminate ambiguities, ensuring smoother execution.
• Risk Mitigation: By identifying risks early, you can minimize disruptions down the line.
• Better Resource Management: Precise schedules mean smarter allocation of resources.
• Enhanced Stakeholder Confidence: A robust, DCMA-compliant schedule demonstrates professionalism and builds trust.

Complying with these guidelines doesn’t just reduce stress; it creates a sturdy foundation for success in challenging construction environments.

Build Stronger Projects with Better Schedules

Every construction manager knows that even the best-laid plans often go awry. But with a DCMA 14-Point-compliant schedule, you’ll have the confidence to tackle those challenges head-on. Take it one step at a time—start by reviewing your current schedules against the 14 points and identify areas for improvement.

Remember, a great schedule isn’t just about finishing the project on time; it’s about doing so with efficiency, transparency, and minimal risk. Begin incorporating these practices today to set your future projects up for unparalleled success.

The post DCMA 14-Point Assessments for Eco-Friendly Contractors appeared first on Green Building Insider.

The World Economic Forum says that this is finally changing. They published an article titled 2024: a tipping point for investing in sustainable buildings.

“Building owners are facing the rising costs of climate risk but also growing transition risk, including tightening policy and regulation, evolving market expectations and wider societal pressure. This has big potential implications for the value of their assets and the income they generate… Most importantly for both owners and occupiers, we believe 2024 will be the tipping point when the value creation and returns for these investments in sustainable office buildings will start to pay dividends,” WEF author Guy Grainger writes.

The market for green buildings was will be wororth $238.91 billion in 2021 and is projected to be worth over $383 billion by 2030. The growing demand creates all kinds of opportunities for companies and investors catering to sustainable construction practices.

Factors Driving Demand for Green Construction

Green building projects are becoming a lot more popular these days. A number of factors are driving interest in them, which is creating opportunities for investors. Some of the driving factors are listed below.

New Government Initiatives in the US and Europe

The World Green Building Council reports that a number of changes have created more demand for green construction than ever. On April 4, 2022, they responded to the new EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, which is going to play a huge role.

New regulations geared towards lowering the global carbon footprint will mean more companies have to construct sustainable buildings. Green construction companies and their investors will stand to benefit.

Realizations Made During the Pandemic

The pandemic has really fueled investor interest in green building projects. Many people all over the world finally realized how vulnerable our world is due to changes brought on by the pandemic. Many people are more concerned about climate change as a result.

Investors recognize these developments and want to take advantage of growing demand for companies focused on sustainability.

Green Construction is Gaining Momentum in the United States and Abroad

As the practice of green building rises in popularity, construction companies across the United States started to adapt their outdated methods. They reduced their carbon emissions and eliminated waste, improving their sustainability under the pressures of environmental regulations and public attention.

In this transition, construction companies have also embraced the use of green building components. In doing so, they decreased their dependence on harmful materials and increased their investment in eco-friendly alternatives. Naturally, these changes benefit progressive investors looking to build their portfolio.

Of course, you shouldn’t select the first company that has an association with green building. You have to take a strategic approach, choosing the green building stocks that show significant potential. To that end, this article will serve as a resource to guide you in the right direction, providing the top stocks of 2025.

Nothing is a guarantee, of course, and risk is an inherent element in every investment. Even so, you should review these five options for your portfolio. In the coming decade, the interest in “going green” will only continue to grow, and you can take advantage of these trends with the following stocks.

1. Johnson Controls International PLC

Johnson Controls provides a diverse range of tech-driven solutions for building efficiency and similar purposes. With their experience in building-related equipment — and their mission to create “a smart future” for facilities — they represent an excellent option for investors searching for green building stocks.

Concerning the expected earnings, their EPS forecast for this quarter shows $0.63 with a P/E ratio of 32.21. Johnson Controls pays an annual dividend of $1.48 per common share. Their earnings growth last year was +35.78%, and their projected earnings growth over the next five years is +8.50%.

Clearly, Johnson Controls International PLC has significant promise within the context of current trends. Their management technologies will prove valuable to building managers as they improve sustainability in their facilities. Needless to say, energy efficiency will remain relevant well into the next decade.

2. Honeywell International Inc.

Honeywell International Inc. is a multinational conglomerate company and a leader in building climate control. That said, building automation and control represents only around a third of their sales. They also have aerospace, materials and transportation segments beyond their focus on green building.

Concerning the expected earnings, their EPS forecast for this quarter shows $1.86 with a P/E ratio of 23.79. Honeywell International Inc. pays a quarterly dividend of $0.98 per common share. Their earnings growth last year was +319.35%, and their projected earnings growth over the next five years is +7.47%.

As for the value of Honeywell International Inc., climate control is one of the essential elements of green building. Similar to Johnson Controls, the regulation of a building’s interior temperature is an energy-intensive task. Improved technologies from Honeywell will likely prove important for reducing energy usage.

3. Brookfield Infrastructure Partners LP

Similar to Johnson Controls and Honeywell, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners LP has a focus on energy usage. They’ve identified energy efficiency as a crucial driver of long-term growth, and they hope to improve sustainability and combat the escalating threat of climate change through their infrastructure assets.

Concerning the expected earnings, their EPS forecast for this quarter shows $0.36 with a P/E ratio of 38.3. It fell from over 300 when we published this article in 2019, which shows it is likely no longer highly overvalued. BIP pays a quarterly dividend of $0.54 per common share. This is a $0.04 increase in their dividend earnings from what they were paying in 2019 when we first published this article. Their earnings growth last year was +1,263.25%, and their projected earnings growth over the next five years is +9.59%.

As for alternative options in the same area of investment, you have a range of stocks and funds to select from. For example, 40% of the new international micro-cap fund from Brookvine covers relevant areas like green energy, e-commerce, connectivity, health and wellness, data analytics and cybersecurity.

4. PFB Corporation

PFB Corporation manufactures and sells proprietary insulating building products that use expanded polystyrene. The company operates in both Canada and the United States, selling EPS products, structural insulating panels, building systems and similar tools. Their primary focus is on green building.

Concerning the expected earnings, their EPS forecast for this quarter shows $0.70 with a P/E ratio of 5.8. PFB Corporation pays a quarterly dividend of $0.07 per common share. Their earnings growth this year is 168%, and their projected earnings growth over the next year is 17.60%.

In terms of PFB Corporation’s potential, the increasing demand for alternative building materials will likely continue into the next decade. Among other green building materials, it’s safe to speculate that PFB Corporation’s expanded polystyrene and similar eco-friendly insulators will see greater adoption.

5. LSB Industries Inc.

LSB Industries Inc. is a chemical and GHP manufacturer with a stake in green building practices. Around a third of its revenue comes from its climate control technologies, which, as mentioned earlier, represent an essential element of green building in terms of energy efficiency and the reduction of carbon emissions.

Concerning the expected earnings, their EPS forecast for this quarter shows -$0.09 with an unavailable P/E ratio. LSB Industries does not pay a dividend. Though LXU doesn’t appear promising, their earnings growth this year was +153%, and their projected earnings growth over the next five years is +10.00%.

Investors should give thought to LSB Industries Inc. for its present and future relevance to green building practices. Though it may seem somewhat unappealing next to the other options on this list, its earnings growth this year and projections show it’s still an option deserving of consideration.

An Investment in the Future

As you review green building stocks for your portfolio, consider the five companies above. Each has significant potential in 2025 and the next decade, so research these options in greater detail and determine which of them works best for your current goals.

Whether you choose to invest in Johnson Controls, PFB Corporation, LSB Industries or another, similar option, you’ll see that wealth creation and environmental conservation are one and the same.

The post 5 Green Building Stocks to Consider in 2025 appeared first on Green Building Insider.

In a survey reaching over 2,000 international contractors, builders and developers, almost half said they expect to build more than 50% of their projects as a green building by 2022. This figure increased even more this year. The World Banks Blogs published an article in February 2024 showing that the demand for sustainability was growing significantly. World Bank blogger Susan Lund reports that emissions from buildings are expected to drop 23% by 2035 as more organizations invest in eco-friendly buildings.

To protect the environment while cutting down on costs, builders are turning to these seven popular green building practices in 2024.

1. Net-Zero Buildings

Many contractors are aiming to build net-zero buildings, which are buildings whose energy consumption is roughly equal to their energy output. The goal of this type of building project is to cut down on carbon emissions, water consumption and solid waste transported to landfills.

Those with plans to build a net-zero building typically look for ways to generate renewable energy on and off-site. Popular on-site generation tactics include wind turbines, solar water heating and photovoltaics. Off-site options include large-scale wind farms, solar plants, geothermal plants and hydropower facilities.

The credit offered for generating power sustainably will most likely offset the cost of building these renewable energy sites.

Net Zero buildings are more important in 2024 than ever before. In fact, the White House officially published a definition for them back in June for the first time, which helps emphasize why they are so important.

2. Climate Resiliency

With the growing concern over climate change, one of the top green initiatives is incorporating construction measures to withstand extreme weather patterns and natural disasters, typically in the form of improved infrastructure.

While many coastal cities have taken steps to relax their building codes, not strengthen them, developers are still seeking methods to go above and beyond, aiming to build stronger frames and increase weather resiliency to mitigate weather damage and cut down on insurance costs, such as claims for flood or fire damage.

3. Green Star Certification

The Green Star certification globally promotes integrated building designs which reduce environmental impact.

When a contractor goes through the certification process, their building or project receives a rating from an independent panel of sustainability experts. This rating can verify that a building or community project is a sustainable endeavor.

The rating a project receives comes from nine categories, from building design and construction to operation. Each category assesses the sustainability of a project and determines potential optimizations.

4. LEED Certification

Currently, LEED is the most widely used sustainability rating system in the world, certifying 1.85 million square feet of construction each day. Anyone can claim their building is sustainable. However, a LEED certification holds builders accountable through a structured, points-based rating system.

Earning a LEED certification comes along with many essential benefits, such as lending third-party credibility to an organization’s ability to develop a sustainable project. Not only does the certification process offer advice on the use of indoor and outdoor materials, but it also aids in reducing operational costs by encouraging the use of reduced and renewable energy sources.

This type of certification also indicates to the public where an organization’s priorities lie. It demonstrates a commitment to both sustainability and new green initiatives, building goodwill with the community as well as company stakeholders.

The number of LEED buildings is growing significantly in 2024. There are now 111,397 LEED projects and that number will likely grow over the next year.

5. Distributed Energy Systems

A distributed energy system (DES) controls generation, storage and energy monitoring solutions. Through the use of sensors, meters and actuators, the system can oversee and observe a building’s performance — including heating, cooling, lighting and more — as well as offer suggestions for cutting costs and improving reliability.

Many developers have decided to integrate a DES into their sustainable designs to take advantage of the plethora of benefits.

The benefits of a distributed energy system include:

• Reduced operational costs
• Improved energy reliability
• Reduced carbon footprint
• Additional revenue sources

Many developers have also used a DES to implement the electrification of a motor vehicle fleet, lowering costs and increasing uptime with a more reliable charging system.

6. EDGE Certification

EDGE stands for Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies, a certification which aims to increase construction efficiency in terms of energy, water, building materials and waste.

Getting started with EDGE is very simple for developers, starting with a downloadable software program which allows them to determine the ideal combination of building strategies for the best return on your investment. Upon completion of a project, whether it’s a home, office, hospital or warehouse, an independent panel of experts will audit it to determine if it meets the required standards.

Currently operating in over 130 countries, EDGE certification requires developers to commit to at least a 20 percent reduction in energy and water use as compared to a standard building.

7. Alternative Building Materials

Building and construction activities consume 3 billion tons of raw material each year globally. But this reliance on non-renewable materials has had a lasting impact on the environment and the number of available resources, meaning developers are looking for alternative materials to build with.

2024 has seen a surge in the number of builders using more sustainable methods, with common alternative materials including the following.

• Grasscrete: A technique of layering concrete flooring in a way that allows grass and flora to grow, creating a natural bio-filter and improving storm-water absorption.
• Bamboo: A cost-effective, quickly growing material that is easy to harvest, making it a sustainable material source.
• Recycled plastic: With a lifespan of 30 to 50 years, plastic is a durable and long-lasting building material.
• Wood: Use of wood absorbs carbon dioxide and requires less energy-intensive processing methods.
• Hempcrete: Made from hemp wood, water and lime, this sustainable material is durable and long-lasting.

Other alternatives to traditional building materials include papercrete, engineered wood, cob, steel frame and insulating concrete foam.

Using Green Building Practices

Green building initiatives are booming in popularity, especially with the threat of dwindling renewable resources and unpredictable climate changes. Green construction initiatives accounted for more than 3.3 million jobs in 2018 in the United States alone. That number rose to 303,500 jobs in 2024.

Industry experts also predict these new trends will heighten global awareness of green development in the years to come, leading to newly developed and more efficient sustainable initiatives.

The post The 7 Most Popular Green Building Practices in 2024 appeared first on Green Building Insider.

Sustainable architects are finding new ways to reduce waste and help the planet. One of the steps they are taking is helping create passive homes. These homes are more energy efficient and otherwise good for the planet.

Like other professions, house architects should consider taking up Continuing Professional Development (CPD), allowing them to enhance their professional skills and stand out from their competitors. In fact, CPD is a vital part for house architects and design professionals, as many professional institutes now require their members to undergo a certain number of CPD hours every year.

Here are the top five CPD ideas for passive house architects.

What is CPD for Architects?

Continuing Professional Development or CPD refers to the activities architects undertake to ensure their professional skills are updated with the latest developments in the industry. Generally, the CPD for architects is divided into three categories – structured, reflective, and self-directed. Architects often acquire new information through CPD training activities to meet their professional development objectives and improve their capability in the workplace.

These standards are becoming more important, especially for architects focused on sustainability. They are helping architects meet the needs of clients seeking to be part of the $81 billion market for eco-friendly buildings.

Architecture is an evolving field, and it often evolves at a rapid pace, creating more sustainable and efficient building solutions. In order to keep up, architects should stay abreast of these rising trends. They must have an excellent grasp of the latest developments that could reshape the future of architecture. Ongoing education through CPD is crucial for an architect’s career growth.

1.      Training New Employees 

New architects must receive proper mentoring and training when they come into the firm. It’s an essential step for their learning and professional development. Architects play an important role, making it necessary to equip those new to the profession with the knowledge and skills they need to carry out their responsibilities.

A mentor can be anyone who has practiced the profession for several years and has handled various projects. They can partner with a new architect during the first few months of employment. The mentor can provide guidance and advice to help promote and foster the professional development of the new architect. As someone who knows the ropes in the profession, the mentor can be an effective source of encouragement and advice. They can offer assistance through training and integrating the new architect into the firm. With an expert mentor, the new architect can quickly become a contributing member of the firm.

Mentoring can benefit both the mentor and the new architect. The mentor will feel like they are helping the firm by sharing their acquired knowledge and experience in architecture. By helping others, they gain a better understanding of their profession. Meanwhile, the new architect can greatly benefit from the mentoring by having easy access to helpful guidance and advice, not to mention encouragement, which they need the most, especially during the first few months of being an architect.

2.      Working at Heights 

Like other professions that often deal with danger, especially when working in tall buildings, architects should prioritize their safety at all times. They must ensure that the building they are working on has fire exits that meet the regulatory standards and that they are working only with non-hazardous materials. For these reasons, they should consider booking onto the available online health and safety courses.

Working at construction sites is dangerous, even if you are not directly involved in constructing the building. As an architect, you are sometimes required to make a site visit and personally visit the construction area, which would sometimes require them to climb to the top of the building. According to the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) data, one of the top causes of fatalities in construction is falling from heights.

Thus, one of the CPD Ideas for architects is to take a safety course about working at heights. While taking up the training cannot entirely guarantee that you will not meet any accidents, it can, no doubt, mitigate the risks involved in working at heights. Architects are fully responsible for protecting themselves and the people they work with.

3.      Learn about Listed Building Compliance 

There are about 400,000 listed buildings in the UK. So, if you’re an architect based in the UK, you must be skilled in Listed Building Compliance. Performing work on listed buildings can be challenging since these buildings are considered of special significance or historic interest. 

Whether you need to restore, retrofit, or extend a listed structure, you must be very careful not to cause damage to the property’s original character. Therefore, architects must clearly understand the significance and nature of the listed building. In addition, they should have sufficient knowledge of the laws that protect these historic structures.

Training courses on Listed Building Compliance is highly recommended for architects if they want to advance their professional career. The course will teach them important things like how to get consent or permission to carry out work on a listed building. They will also learn if these types of buildings need to have disabled access and other facilities. It also teaches them how to comply with energy-efficient laws when working with listed buildings.

4.      Learn about Passive House Architecture 

Architects nowadays should also be knowledgeable about passive house architecture. Passive house refers to a high-performance standard on building construction, which dramatically reduces the building’s energy needs. Passive houses are believed to deliver energy savings of up to 90%.

The Passive House design requires the integration of super insulation, airtightness, advanced window technology, and efficient ventilation to provide occupants with clean air and a suitable temperature. While a Passive House’s biggest benefit is providing healthy and comfortable living conditions, its most admired characteristic is its ability to significantly reduce the consumption of electricity and natural gas, which essentially helps to cut down carbon emissions.

But the adoption of Passive House is not mainly about caring for the environment or preventing the dangers of climate change. Even if you do not care much about the planet, Passive House buildings can benefit you in many ways. A passive house is often less costly to maintain because they use a small amount of energy and requires fewer repairs. But perhaps, the biggest benefit it can give is keeping the homeowners healthy. With a passive house, you can enjoy better sleep quality and breathe fresh air daily.

The post Top 5 CPD Ideas for Passive House Architects appeared first on Green Building Insider.

As an architect in 2021, you have to think about the environment. This is why many architecture firms are leading the way in helping the environment. After all, if you can’t rely on sustainable practices, you risk further pollution, which can lead to a huge number of problems in the future. For that reason, as well as many others (e.g., saving money), contemporary architects are turning to zero waste business practices. But how can you apply zero waste policies within your own architectural projects? Well, this article is here to help you find out.

Describing Zero Waste

People online, especially business owners, tend to run into the term ‘zero waste’ and a whole host of questions follows. What is zero waste? Who started zero waste movements and why? Is it something that I should consider?

Zero waste is exactly what its name suggests. It’s a method of conserving all resources without the need to burn or discard any excess materials. There are several ways we can achieve that goal. Generally speaking, it requires responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of everything, from raw materials to finished products and even product packages. In short, everything that doesn’t have to become waste must be used or reused in some way.

Various different industries are already using the zero waste approach. For instance, you have zero waste restaurants popping up across the world. Zero waste shopping malls are also becoming increasingly popular. And yes, even some of the biggest corporations on the planet are looking into implementing zero waste practices.

But how does zero waste apply to architecture, exactly?

LEED Certification

Since the early 1990s, experts have been trying to come up with a green building certification program that can be applied to any architectural project worldwide. The result of their efforts was the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program, also known as LEED.

LEED certification generally covers everything regarding a construction project. Some of the categories include: water efficiency, sustainable sites, atmosphere and energy, indoor environment quality, materials and resources, and design innovation.

Levels of certification range between 0 and 100 points, with 40 being the lowest for certification. Said levels are ranked as follows:

• 40‒49 — certified
• 50‒59 — silver
• 60‒79 — gold
• 80 and above — platinum

Currently, the LEED rating system is grouped into five overarching categories:

• Building Design and Construction (BD+C)
• Interior Design and Construction
• Building Operations and Maintenance (O+M)
• Neighborhood Development
• Home design and construction

As of August 2021, there are roughly 96,000 LEED-certified projects around the world, in 167 different countries. This number clearly shows just how interested people are in green architecture, and the upward trend will definitely continue in the decades to come.

Key Points to Consider in Zero Waste Architecture

In order to maintain a zero-waste policy, an architect needs to consider the so-called four R’s of circular economy: rethink, reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Rethink

Rethinking is the initial step to every zero-waste project. As an architect, you need to look at your project and start thinking outside of the box. For example, consider the materials you will need. Can you use an alternative, and if so, can your alternative materials be locally sourced? That way, you will save money on transport and shipping, as well as reduce your working hours. Furthermore, you’ll need to think about potential design constraints and how best to tackle them. Innovative architectural practices like passive solar design can also help you achieve your zero-waste goals if you start to implement them as early as the planning stage.

Reduce

There are several ways you can look at on-site reduction when it comes to architecture. Here are several examples:

• Resizing the level of concrete, metal, or any other raw material
• Designing lightweight systems that use up fewer resources than usual
• Decreasing on-site waste via different building and designing practices
• Eliminating the need for excess drying or cooling during construction
• Lowering the carbon footprint by eliminating the need for transport as much as possible
• Reducing the size of the urban living space
• Figuring out sustainable transport systems from one location to the next in an urban area.

Reuse

Just like reducing, reusing can also be viewed in more than one way when it comes to sustainable architecture. More specifically, we will look into two types of reuse:

• Material reuse
• Reuse of entire buildings

Reuse of materials is rather straightforward. During construction (or post-demolition), you can take the raw materials and, instead of sending them to the landfill, use them for your new project. Anything from structural steel meshes, solid wood, concrete, brick, stone, glass, metal coatings, and partition walls can and should be reused whenever possible.

Reusing an entire building might sound like a novel concept, but it’s actually something we’ve been doing for centuries, if not millennia. If a building still has structural integrity, tearing it down would be a massive waste. Instead, as a project supervisor, you can convert the building into something new. For example, you can turn an old factory or a prison into a museum, an art gallery, an office space, or even a hotel. Many architects are following similar strategies to lower the carbon footprints of their homes as well. The only real limit, other than potential budgetary constraints, is your imagination.

Recycle

One of the new concepts that entrepreneurs are embracing with open arms is urban mining. In short, it’s the practice of going to abandoned buildings or post-demolition landfills and acquiring secondary raw materials that we can convert into something else. That way, instead of polluting our land, water, and air, these materials are finding a new purpose and follow the circular model of green architecture. As a modern architect yourself, you can greatly benefit from recycling construction material, whether as an urban miner or as a provider of the materials themselves.

Conclusion

If applied effectively, sustainable architecture practices can make our lives easier in many different ways. Not only will they save our time, money, and effort in a tangible way, but they will also contribute to keeping our planet safe. And of course, no construction project can ever be safe enough if our very own environment is too dangerous for us to inhabit.

The post Sustainable Architecture: Going Zero Waste appeared first on Green Building Insider.

With this in mind, zero-carbon home building is becoming more popular. So what do you need to know about zero-carbon home building before you put it on your resume?

1. What Does Net Zero-Carbon Mean?

First, what does it mean for a home to be zero-carbon? There are two parts to that answer — your home’s operational energy and embodied energy.

Embodied energy refers to the carbon expense of your building materials — concrete, timber, steel, etc. You can begin to offset that portion by choosing recycled, reclaimed, or other eco-friendly construction materials and selecting options designed to be energy-efficient.

Your operational energy, on the other hand, refers to the power you use and your impact on the environment. This is where things like eco-friendly electric heat pumps and Energy Star appliances come into play.

2. The Materials and Appliances Play a Large Role

Instead of choosing traditional building materials, the first step toward creating a zero-carbon home is to choose materials with a smaller carbon footprint that will be easier to offset in the long run.

Recycled materials are closer to zero-carbon than new ones, and choosing things like limecrete instead of concrete can help further reduce that number.

At this stage, you’ll also want to choose windows that help reduce heat loss. Double- or triple-glazed glass are the best option, allowing plenty of natural light into the home without bleeding heat during the cooler months or allowing too much heat in during the warm months. This, in turn, reduces the home’s energy usage and shrinks its carbon footprint, bringing it closer to that zero-carbon goal.

3. No Gas Here — Zero-Carbon Is All-Electric

Gas ranges are popular for cooking, and gas is a standard tool for heating homes across the country. But you won’t find either in a zero-carbon home. Instead, these properties come equipped with electric ranges and ovens, as well as electric heating or geothermal gas pumps, which we’ll look at in more detail in a moment.

This has a secondary bonus of improving interior air quality. Burning natural gas releases many contaminants, from carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides to sulfur dioxide and volatile organic compounds, all of which can negatively affect interior air quality.

Plus, no matter how clean it is, natural gas is still a fossil fuel. And one of the primary goals of a zero-carbon house is to get away from fossil fuels as much as possible.

4. Zero-Carbon Homes are Airtight and Insulated

Two of the biggest aspects of zero-carbon homes are airtightness and insulation. This is a step above what you’ll find in a more traditional home. These properties are designed to be as airtight as possible unless a door or window is open, and are more heavily insulated to reduce the amount of energy necessary to heat and cool the home.

These homes also focus on elements like blown cellulose insulation rather than a more traditional fiberglass because it’s renewable, carbon-neutral, and biodegradable.

5. The Carbon Footprint May or May Not Include Transportation

There are two schools of thought on this. Some believe your home’s carbon footprint doesn’t include your transportation. Others believe it should all be lumped together.

The argument is that the home’s eventual location plays a large role in the household’s total carbon footprint. The farther you are from work, school, and other facilities, the farther you have to travel and the more fossil fuels you expend. Your carbon footprint expands as a result.

Homeowners can offset this by making the switch to electric vehicles — especially if their home runs primarily on solar or other green energy — reducing their commute, or using public transportation whenever possible.

6. They’re More Expensive Than Traditional Homes

This is something potential homeowners will need to consider before breaking ground. Zero-carbon homes are usually 5%-15% more expensive than conventional home construction.

This isn’t a bad thing, though the idea of paying more on day one for the same size home could be a little off-putting for some homebuyers.

On the flip side, there are savings to consider. The reduced utility costs mean the house and its zero-carbon improvements start paying for themselves from day one.

7. There Are Additional Steps to Obtain LEED Certification

While it’s not necessary for a zero-carbon home, many homeowners wish their homebuilders to apply for LEED certification. There are six categories to consider when applying for LEED certification:

• Location
• Water efficiency
• Energy/atmosphere
• Material/resource selection
• Indoor air quality
• Innovation

Make sure you study the requirements if a LEED certification application is also in your construction plan.

8. Many Zero-Carbon Homes Incorporate Heat Pumps

Instead of relying on gas or electricity to heat and cool the home, many zero-carbon homes rely on heat pumps to keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and to offset the carbon output of a given structure.

These pumps are connected to a series of pipes buried deep in the ground below the house. During the winter, they collect Earth’s heat and use it to keep your house warm. In the summer, they can pull heat away from your home, keeping it more comfortable.

This is often the best option for heating and cooling a zero-carbon home. Even electric HVAC systems have a small carbon footprint due to their reliance on electricity, especially if you’re still hooked up to the grid. Heat pumps are optimal when other forms of green and renewable energy aren’t available or are impractical.

9. You Can Retrofit Existing Properties to Make Them Zero-Carbon

You don’t have to start from the ground up to build a zero-carbon home, although it is often easier. You can retrofit existing properties to make them as close to zero-carbon as possible.

The only place you’re likely to run into issues is with the original building materials. But you may be able to mitigate that with a carbon offset program to achieve true zero-carbon status.

There isn’t a lot of information yet on how these retrofits affect the overall value of the property. But with new zero-carbon homes already costing more than traditional construction, it’s safe to assume investing in retrofitting an existing property will help increase the overall value.

10. The Government May Offer Incentives to Go Zero Carbon

As with most green technologies, many state and federal government offices offer incentives to encourage homeowners to seek out zero-carbon buildings.

The exact details of these incentives vary from state to state and from country to country. The future homeowner may be able to claim these incentives in the form of tax credits or rebates, or even as discounts on construction materials.

Construction companies may also be able to claim incentives for building these zero-carbon structures, depending on the rules of your local incentive program.

The Future of the Zero-Carbon Home

Zero-carbon homes will become an essential part of the construction industry moving forward as countries around the globe look for ways to reduce their carbon footprints and adhere to the outlines set up by the Paris Climate Accords.

This will continue to shape homebuilding for years to come, making now the perfect time for construction companies to get their foot in the door and start offering zero-carbon building solutions.

The post 10 Things to Know About Zero-Carbon Home Building appeared first on Green Building Insider.

These days, one of the most effective and trending ways to go green is to not only look at how we live, but also where we live, and to take those practices, products and policies into our houses. Whether we are making green updates to a treasured home, or building a new eco-friendly house, let’s take a look at how green building impacts our wallets. You don’t need to live in a smart house to be green. There are a lot of other sustainable living ideas to try.

Green Building Certifications

There are many certification programs available for green building that notably increase the value of your property, and often lead to other incentives such as tax breaks and grants. Green certified buildings often even receive discounts on homeowner’s insurance. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) issued by U.S. Green Buildings Council, is probably the most easily recognized sustainable building certification, as more than 1.6 million residential units are currently participating in LEED around the world. Other popular certifications include Energy Star, BREEAM, and Green Globes. Prospective buildings undergo a thorough third-party verification process, including an onsite inspection and performance testing. Successfully certified homes deliver on design plans and meet green building commitments that save energy, water and other resources. But do they save money? By using less energy, green homes also lower utility bills. On average, LEED certified homes save 30% of water and 15-20% of energy, which averages out to about $70 per month in utility bill savings. While the typical cost of an entry level LEED home is about 3 to 5 percent higher than a conventional home, that additional cost is canceled out by utility savings, making a LEED certified home with all of its benefits- from cleaner indoor air quality for the family, to a lower carbon footprint for the planet- comparable in cost to a traditional home meeting minimum building code.

Tax Breaks

We talked about a number of financial benefits of green buildings for both consumers and businesses in the past. One benefit is tax breaks.

Like certifications, there are many available tax breaks, grants, and other financial incentives for green construction, helping many families to make the commitment to saving the planet. Federal, state, and local governments want your home to be more efficient and earth-friendly, and surprisingly, so do many utility companies. From solar to wind, geothermal to fuel cell energies, the tax breaks being offered can make a huge impact on their cost for either new or existing projects, offering up to up to 26% of the installation and equipment as a tax credit. Not to mention all of the state, local and utility deals. For example, Pacific Gas and Electric, a leading California utility company, offers utility bill rebates of up to $120 to customers who purchase efficient appliances and equipment. The building of eco homes is on the rise with thanks going to these tax breaks and money saving incentives. Keep in mind these tax breaks are set through December 31, 2021, when they will be reevaluated.

Uncertified Updates

On the more affordable end for the homeowner who wants to make sustainable upgrades without the commitment of a certificate or a new build, there are tons of options. There are simple best practices that are cost effective and low effort, like sealing windows and other air leaks (90 inches of weather strips costing about $12), taking shorter showers, turning lights off or switching to LED bulbs (8 pack for about $10), and using pressure cookers (ranging from $50-$250) rather than the energy intensive ovens. There are more long-term investments such as installing energy efficient windows or doors (lowering energy bills by 12% on average), installing a whole house fan (saving 90% in cooling energy costs on average), or upgrading kitchen appliances (qualifying for tax breaks plus potential energy bill savings of over $100 per year).

Final Thoughts

It is very clear that energy saving, means energy bill saving. If a family is able to front the cash to make the upgrades or commitments to a sustainable lifestyle, the numbers say they will save money in the long run. Luckily, we don’t have to choose between saving a buck or saving the planet, with options for every person on every budget. Not only that, but government financial incentives make it easier than ever to make the switch to a green lifestyle. It is heartening to know that energy companies, insurance companies, local and federal governments all are on the same page about saving the planet, and want to create the easiest, most accessible path for homeowners to get on board, too.

The post How Green Building Projects Impact Your Wallet appeared first on Green Building Insider.

What does it mean to have a zero-energy building? People can learn the answers to these questions — and more — with this helpful net-zero guide.

What Is a Zero-Energy Building?

Many people want sustainable buildings, which maximize the use of natural resources to minimize the impact on the planet. A net-zero, or zero-energy, building takes that goal to the next level.

A widely accepted definition is that the building is so efficient and reliant on renewable sources that the total energy it needs is equal to or less than the renewable energy produced at the site. Some organizations also call these structures zero-carbon buildings because the total carbon dioxide emissions equal zero or a negative value.

Net-zero homes are still relatively rare in the United States, with about 5,000 single-family houses that produce zero carbon. Some analysts believe the tides are changing, but not all at once.

For example, California now mandates that most new homes and multi-family residences up to three stories high must have solar panels, a step in the right direction in achieving a net-zero goal.

What Are the Benefits of a Zero-Energy Building?

When people think of the advantages of a net-zero building, the energy savings often come to mind first. Eliminating one’s dependence on the electrical grid is also appealing, especially for individuals who are concerned about price fluctuations.

Speaking of the grid, if a zero-energy building produces more energy than necessary, occupants can sell the excess to power companies as an income-generating activity. For example, the Unisphere is one of the largest commercial buildings in the United States. Since its design includes nearly 3,000 solar panels, all surplus power produced during the day gets sold to the grid.

A net-zero building can also be educational and help people feel influential to the future of the planet. Virginia’s Discovery Elementary School, for instance, is a net-zero facility. About 75 of its students take part in the Eco-Action Team, which has monthly meetings to teach young people about how to save energy, live healthily, consume less and other pertinent topics.

Buildings account for around 30% of greenhouse gas emissions globally, and carbon dioxide is one of the most abundant emissions. Therefore, a zero-carbon building trend could mean that structures earn a better reputation by helping the planet instead of hurting it.

Moreover, if a brand commits to reaching a zero-energy milestone by a specified time, it could become a leader for other commercial entities to follow. Fulfilling that role could be crucial if a company’s target audience is especially eco-conscious or the brand has made previous efforts towards sustainability and wants to maximize them.

What Challenges Exist for Net-Zero Buildings?

The quest to erect more net-zero buildings is not without its difficulties. One issue is that some corporations want to get behind a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 or 2050, but not all of them agree on what net-zero means. The definition given earlier in this guide is a frequently used one, but it still hasn’t achieved universal acceptance.

Relatedly, there is no single method for verifying and certifying greenhouse gas reductions achieved through net-zero emissions. Coming up with one would help companies figure out what they’re doing well and where there’s room for improvement.

People have complained that it’s fine to have net-zero goals, but the aspirations fall apart when companies don’t have a well-defined gameplan for reaching that distant objective. For example, Rio Tinto is a mining company that will make a $1 billion investment over five years to meet climate goals. However, the company’s CEO, Jean-Sébastien Jacques, has said, “There is no clear pathway right now for the world to get net-zero emissions by 2050.”

Another difficulty is the unequal pace of progress in this area across the globe. For example, Ireland has what it deems “nearly net-zero buildings.” These new homes must be 70% more energy-efficient and produce 70% fewer carbon dioxide emissions compared to those built in 2005. Plus, energy analysts point out that net-zero buildings are not priorities for some Asian nations, and people there still see a future that uses coal.

However, if a person or company is genuinely interested in moving ahead with net-zero buildings, they must try to focus on what’s within their power to do. It’s impossible to make every resident or country promise to work towards a particular energy generation or emissions objective. Fortunately, committed people and brands can still make impressive progress through diligent dedication.

What Steps Can People Take Towards Net-Zero Buildings?

If a person is interested in living in a zero-energy home, they must decide what steps they’re willing to take to make that happen. One option is to work with a zero-energy builder who can either create a residence from the ground up or retrofit an existing one. Also, New York has a net-zero apartment complex called netZero Village. It could be a possibility for people who want to move into net-zero homes and are willing to relocate if necessary.

Another necessity is to decide whether the net-zero definition only extends to energy use or goes beyond. For example, some people bring other aspects, such as water and waste, into their zero-energy plans. In that case, a person has what’s sometimes called a net-zero-passive house. A passive house is not necessarily net-zero, but the term refers to making the house have as small of an ecological footprint as possible. As such, net-zero and passivity go together well.

Some local authorities also realize that it’s not feasible to expect commercial entities to meet a net-zero goal right away. In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, members of the city council unanimously passed a measure to make all of the area’s new or renovated government buildings net-zero ready.

In essence, that means they’ll meet a standard that enables using very little energy. Then, over a year, that usage is offset via a connection to an on-site or local energy source. Such an approach shows that city officials aren’t trying to do everything at once, but they’re laying the groundwork for meaningful, timely improvements.

Even if people are not at the point where they’re directly associated with net-zero buildings, they can still show their support for them. In September 2020, London will be the site for the world’s first Net Zero Festival, a gathering that brings people from various sectors together to explore how to achieve some of the energy goals set around the globe. Planning to attend could help interested persons stay in the loop about building practices and more.

What Is the Future for Zero-Energy Buildings?

As mentioned earlier, numerous nations have net-zero goals. However, they aren’t only focusing on buildings. In Serbia, a music festival’s campaign ultimately convinced the government there to plant one billion trees as part of a broader effort to reach zero carbon emissions by 2050. The structures that people live and work in will undoubtedly play key roles in the overall aims, too.

An industry analysis anticipates a 15.6% combined annual growth rate for net-zero-energy buildings around the world from 2019 to 2024. Several areas in Europe may become zero-energy districts, too.

A Net-Zero Building Is a Worthy Aspiration

It’s not realistic to expect the world to make a quick transition to zero-energy buildings. However, the examples here show that the idea is taking off globally.

Since many countries have set goals to reduce emissions, leaders will need to assess how buildings fit into their respective targets. Making a net-zero building requires extensive planning, but following through could have positive effects for this generation and future ones.

The post The Complete Net-Zero Guide: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Green Building Insider.

Sustainability is often integrated into CSR aims. Companies frequently pledge to track and reduce the resources they use or require their freight partners to gradually transition to new practices that reduce CO2 emissions.

Another practical and effective option is to investigate the possibilities of sustainable infrastructure. Let’s examine how such buildings support broader CSR goals.

Sustainable Certifications Are Popular Options

When companies assess how sustainable infrastructure fits into their CSR goals, they often pursue Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifications. Several levels of LEED certification exist, and an organization receives points according to the measures they take to become more sustainable. Points get awarded in six main categories, including water efficiency and site selection.

In the summer of 2019, news broke that the organization that developed the Olympic House, which serves as the headquarters for the International Olympic Committee, received the most points of any new LEED-certified construction project up to that time. It received 93 LEED points and is the first building in Switzerland to earn LEED v4 certification.

Moreover, It’s the first international headquarters building to get the Swiss Sustainable Construction Standard (SNBS). The certifications reportedly tie into the 2020 Olympic Agenda which, is one of the three “pillars” of the upcoming competition.

Another option is for companies to set their sights on ISO 14001:2015 – Certification for the Environment. It’s for companies in all industries and helps them protect the environment, prevent pollution and improve their environmental performance. A focus on continual improvement makes this option like other ISO standards, although this one centers on environmental aspects and how they affect a business.

Earning a certification is not the only way for an organization to focus on sustainable infrastructure, of course. However, when companies or groups strive towards recognizable achievements like the ones described above, it’s easier for the public and peers alike to understand what certification means, and why it’s such an accomplishment.

A Sustainable Building Could Include a Green Roof

Green roofs feature grass, vegetable gardens on what’s typically a building’s highest surface. Evidence suggests these roofs can cut energy costs, minimize flood damage, provide habitats for wildlife, beautify buildings and more. Despite these benefits, green roofs have not yet reached the mainstream everywhere.

A well-designed green roof must distribute and store water for the plants it holds. It’s typically easier to integrate such infrastructure into the roofs of newer buildings compared to older ones. That’s one reason why North American cities, where the buildings are not as old as those in many European cities, have roofs with green buildings more often.

Plus, green roofs tend to appear in places where local legislators embrace the benefits of such infrastructure and agree to adjust budgets to support them. Once leaders give nods of approval, building professionals should find they don’t encounter as many challenges when meeting the needs of their clients who say they want green roofs on their buildings.

You can probably imagine how a green-roofed building could help employees feel more connected as they spend some of their free time to collectively nurture the plants growing in these gardens. But some businesses have a further-reaching mindset concerning how a green roof relates to CSR. Remember, a corporate sustainability plan examines how to improve society. That frequently means feeding communities.

Boston Medical Center boasts a 2,658-square-foot farm on its roof. Although health care facilities treat ailments, they also take preventative approaches to help people stay healthy. Often, that means encouraging them to eat nutritious diets. What if patients have difficulty accessing the food required for a health-promoting diet? The hospital runs the Preventative Food Pantry, giving participants access to dozens of crops to feed their families.

Green Buildings Are Gaining Popularity

We’ve covered some of the possibilities for companies to pursue if they want to make green buildings part of their corporate sustainability goals. However, other options are particularly easy to install and start reaping the benefits. Some businesses may wish to explore those first before concluding that they want to substantially revamp their infrastructure to make it more sustainable.

For example, a company may install new faucets in its restrooms that use less water and turn off automatically once a person leaves. Those solutions could avoid waste. Similarly, motion sensors could help ensure that no one accidentally leaves their office light on when going home. Smart thermostats are also widely used, and they assist a company in keeping its internal spaces comfortable without excessive energy usage.

Regardless of the specific ways a business decides to take advantage of sustainable buildings, a recent market research report indicates the green building market is poised for growth. It estimates a 10.26% combined annual growth rate for the sector from 2018-2023. That finding suggests that it’s time for construction professionals to update their knowledge about green infrastructure to prepare to meet clients’ CSR aspirations.

A Trend Worth Following

A comprehensive CSR plan encompasses a variety of aspects that a company deems essential. This overview shows that businesses can — and should — investigate ways to strategically include sustainable buildings in their intentions to give back and help societies via their resources and actions.

The post How Companies Can Achieve Corporate Responsibility Through Sustainable Infrastructure appeared first on Green Building Insider.

More homeowners and renters want sustainable abodes, and business owners desire increased revenue from energy-saving buildings. Building certifications such as LEED, BREEAM and Green Globes grow in recognition as contractors dive into sustainability head-first. The construction industry is listening to the public’s concerns, and they’re rapidly adapting to address these points.

The energy-intensive materials of yesteryear have faded in favor among environmentalists, and the general public is following. Attractive and sustainable solutions swoop in to replace them. Though many ideas exist — some current and some old — the construction industry favors a few in particular. Here is a list of seven sustainable building materials construction companies often use.

1. Bamboo

Bamboo resists pests and disease, making it a stress-free option for building owners — no termites means fewer bills to pay. It’s more durable than concrete, providing a sturdy structure for frames and walls. Bamboo’s lightweight quality makes foreign transportation less fuel-intensive, although there are a few species native to North America. It also grows quickly, which allows for abundant harvesting — some types shoot up to three feet within 24 hours.

Green buildings often feature bamboo in flooring, walls and cabinets. In locations with limited access to steel, builders use it to reinforce concrete slabs, adding an extra layer of strength.

2. Reclaimed Wood

Rustic chic enthusiasts, this one is for you. Building with reclaimed wood involves reusing preexisting wood and restructuring it for a new purpose. If you’ve been to a vintage store, you’ve seen plenty of dressers and chests made of this material. Contractors find it equally convenient for construction projects, as it provides durability along with charm and low cost.

Reclaimed wood possesses a lower embodied energy than fresh wood because it doesn’t undergo the cutting and curing process. A percentage of lumber is always lost during cutting, but this can go towards creating engineered wood. Reclaimed wood also decreases deforestation and allows trees to grow to proper maturity before their eventual harvest.

You’ll most often find reclaimed wood in support beams, countertops, shelving and flooring.

3. Precast Concrete

Precast concrete slabs are recyclable — construction workers make them with locally mined or recycled materials. Their production requires less energy than pouring concrete on-site, and they offer fewer chances for structural cracks and errors. These slabs arrive at construction sites according to predetermined specifications, which saves a tremendous amount of time and energy. Efficiency is a requirement at many construction sites, and precast concrete fits the bill.

The strength of concrete slabs functions well in constructing bridges, underground infrastructure and pavement. Along with its toughness and fire resistance, it also absorbs sound, making it ideal for places like libraries and hospitals.

4. Cork

Now you can have the perfect home aesthetic to match your wine collection — who would’ve thought? Construction companies commonly use cork as a flooring solution, though it also works as insulation. It’s fire-resistant, impenetrable and liquid-proof, which saves the hassle of constant upkeep. It also has excellent thermal and acoustic absorption, making it for great blocking out sound and holding in heat.

Cork grows on trees that regenerate their bark, which leaves them healthy and ready for the next harvest. These trees primarily exist in the Mediterranean, which can make fossil fuel emissions higher. It makes up for this with its lightness, though, by reducing the energy needed for transport.

5. Steel

Metal is one of the most durable building materials of them all. You see it in towering skyscrapers, winding railroad tracks and sturdy bridges every day. The possibilities of this material are endless, and luckily, steel doesn’t require a ton of energy to produce. The carbon footprint of steelmaking has decreased by 37% since 1990, and engineers continually find ways to streamline the process.

Once a metal structure reaches the end of its purpose, builders can deconstruct it and recycle it for new initiatives. Steel is unique in its ability to be reused forever. Ninety-three percent of structural steel in the U.S. consists of recycled metal, which proves how versatile this material is.

6. Non-VOC Paint

Many paints and varnishes contain chemicals called volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. These are irritating at best and deadly at worst, and their concentration rises indoors. Before you give up your painting hobby for good, though, know that non-VOC paints exist. Developers are starting to use these inside green buildings instead of toxic paints. You’ll also find an abundance of low-VOC varnishes at your local department stores, but this label can be ambiguous. How much is “low” without a specific number?

Using non-toxic paint can even reduce the need to run the AC to cycle chemicals out of the air, which saves money and energy.

7. Wool

Sheep’s wool serves as a common substitute for more toxic insulation types. It grows faster than cotton — meaning higher production — and it doesn’t degrade like straw does. The most sustainable manufacturing processes come from New Zealand. Water efficiency, flock health and energy conservation are paramount on New Zealand sheep farms. The nation’s care and attention to detail has secured their position as a giant in the wool making industry.

Head to the nearest home goods store, and you’ll likely find a wool rug or two. It’s become a favorable solution for rugs and carpeting due to its ability to purify indoor air. Wool absorbs nasty particles and contaminants and prevents them from reentering the atmosphere, leaving you with cleaner oxygen.

Constructing Greener Futures Through Innovation

Green building materials prove their durability and efficiency in countless ways. More construction companies and consumers will reap the benefits of sustainable building as businesses make the switch. Soon, it’ll be commonplace to uphold eco-friendly initiatives in the comfort of your home.

The post 7 Most Popular Green Building Materials appeared first on Green Building Insider.