The Potential of Sustainable Materials for Green Building Practices

Abstract

The selection of materials is a critical aspect of any construction activity, and there is a significant reliance on man-made materials compared to those sourced from natural resources. The production of man-made construction materials produces significant amounts of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and other ecologically harmful gases and byproducts. These substances can be deadly and hazardous to both human and environmental health. As a result, the infrastructure sector has become one of the major contributors to environmental deterioration. The recent population growth has led to a significant increase in the demand for man-made materials. To address this pressing need of the current situation, there is a call for sustainable and eco-friendly materials that offer energy efficiency, easy availability, and minimal disturbance to the environment's ecological system. The primary objective of using these green building materials is to mitigate the negative effect of construction projects on both human health and the natural environment. Typically, building materials are chosen based on their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. However, the selection and utilization of green materials focus on their functional, technical, and financial attributes. Green materials encompass recycled and reused materials, products made through sustainable production practices, locally available resources, or those derived from environmentally friendly sources. The objective of this paper is to describe various green materials that can be used in building construction and emphasize their positive impact on reducing environmental degradation. These materials contribute to the creation of healthy, sustainable buildings that are beneficial for both occupants and the environment.