To conduct sustainable building means meeting the needs of the construction industry in the present moment without affecting the ability of future generations to satisfy their requirements. The good news is that we are highly aware of the construction industry’s impact on the environment. Therefore, as an industry, we are continually improving our efforts to reduce our negative impact on the planet.

The long-term viability of any development greatly depends on the materials used at every stage of the building process. Unfortunately, the building industry makes heavy use of various materials, many of which raise the question of whether or not they are beneficial to the environment.

The health of our planet, the unabated expansion of society, and the maturation of individuals are all critically dependent on the concept of sustainability. 

There are three different main types of products that have sustainability depending on their resources. So let’s start one by one.

#1. Granite

If Nature is constantly productive, then granite may be regarded as a renewable resource. Some people, however, believe that granite is not self-sustaining since it takes thousands of years to form.

The stone is widely distributed around the globe. Marble, for example, has been extracted from Carrara, Italy, for centuries, and it is still widely available today.

Once a quarry is thoroughly planned out, the granite levels inside it may be mined for centuries without being replaced. Granite is non-toxic after extraction and does not release toxic gases or radiation.

When compared to other materials, granite has a longer lifespan. The material of granite may be recycled and reused.

If granite and marble are recyclable, they fail to fulfil the agreement on sustainability since their resources are not renewable even as Nature renews itself.

But research from the University of Stuttgart found that natural stone (granite specifically) is the most eco-friendly option for flooring.

Granite mining isn’t exactly known for being eco-friendly, with all the energy expended in the discovery and transformation process. Still, the stone industry is aware of its impact and has introduced reduction techniques to make the practice more sustainable.

#2. Marble

Marble is a common building material, but its sustainability is rarely considered. In reality, it has a high degree of life. Because marble exists in Nature, this is where it was first found. Many factors combine to make it an ideal construction material. Although many of the reasons are identical, the sustainability of marble is still another reason to switch out your old worktops and flooring. Some of the justifications for this claim are listed below.

Durability

Marble is naturally durable. It’s complex and almost difficult to break. It can scrape, but there are methods to keep it looking new. Marble’s durability extends to its sustainability. 

Due to its durability, it’s not necessary to buy it often. This minimizes consumer expenses and environmental effects. Marble surfaces are a win-win. It’s low-maintenance and won’t need replacing for decades. 

You’ll assist the environment by not constantly removing wood surfaces, which deteriorate quickly.

Recyclability

Marble is naturally recyclable. It’s worth considering. Unfortunately, many curbside recycling services don’t take marble or other building materials. However, you can identify local building materials and processing centers that can take the marble. 

#3. Concrete

Concrete is now the material used worldwide in more significant quantities than any other man-made product, and it is the second most used material overall, behind only water. In addition, it is inexpensive, reliable, and long-lasting and can be moulded into various patterns. 

In addition to this, the thermal stability of concrete can contribute to the creation of constructions that are more energy efficient. 

However, in terms of materials, only coal, oil, and gas are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.

The production method is hazardous to the environment, energy-intensive, and carbon dioxide-releasing is used for Granite and Marble. However, in contrast to more expensive stones like granite and marble, there is a good supply of the required raw materials. Although concrete’s manufacturing method isn’t very eco-friendly, the material achieved through the development and flexibility makes it hard to recommend a better choice.

Over time, concrete has evolved into a more sustainable building material. The concrete is crushed and used as aggregate in many construction projects. 

Depending on the settling period, concrete is also resistant to –

  • Chemicals
  • UV rays
  • Weathering

However, this resistance decreases over time. In addition, the maintenance for concrete is deficient; all it takes to keep it looking good is the occasional wash with water and soap to get rid of dirt and grime, or at worst, the repair of cracks to stop water from seeping in.

Wrapping It Up

It’s safe to say that these materials are important to the construction industry. Even though they’re unavoidable, always go for the recycled product first.