Sustainable architecture prioritizes using sustainable building materials. The vision of this architecture is to create buildings with environmentally friendly materials and processes. What are these environmentally friendly materials? Here are 5 examples!

Reclaimed/recycled metal

Do you know that producing iron and aluminum requires a lot of energy? However, scrap iron and aluminum are highly recyclable. There is no limit to the number of times the material is recycled. So, we can recycle as much as possible. Of course this process reduces energy and fuel than buying new iron.

Precast concrete slab

Truth is, this material is becoming increasingly popular in the construction world. Precast concrete blocks are casted in the factory. So, we just need to assemble them, just like brick blocks. This material is very suitable for sustainable architecture because it’s more practical than concrete which has to be made and mixed on the building site. In addition, concrete molding happens in a factory in which the environment is optimal. So, of course, reducing risk of damage because it isn’t exposed to weather and other disturbances.

Concrete containing recycled plastic waste

Concrete with recycled plastic as a sustainable building material (Source: torange.biz)

Next is the material that’s already popular in several countries, for example Japan and Australia. Engineers have discovered a concrete material that contains a mixture of recycled plastic and glass. This material is cheaper than ordinary concrete. Then, it also helps reduce the accumulation of plastic waste on this earth. In addition, the material is light and strong, even up to 15% stronger than ordinary concrete. Cool, right?

Reclaimed/recycled wood

Besides metal, there is also wood. Old wood materials can go through aprocess and become recycled wood. This material is especially suitable for those who like a rustic look. Because, usually a plank can be made of various mixtures of wood. However, the manufacturing process must be very careful. Each wood must be checked carefully, whether there is damage or not.

Ceramic granite breezeblock

Ceramic granite breezeblock ventilations are natural, energy efficient, and environmentally friendly

The last one is the ceramic granite breezeblock. Breezeblock or ventilation block is a very sustainable and environmentally friendly building material, and is often the main choice of sustainable architecture. Its main function is as natural ventilation. So, unlike air conditioners or ventilation fans that have to use electricity. Then, there are also many rainscreen designs, so that rainwater won’t enter the house. In addition, ceramic granite breezeblock is also strong (lasting decades), durable, and easy to maintain. It is enough to clean it with a damp cloth, and there is no need for maintenance once a month like other types of breezeblocks.