Protecting the environment should be a priority for contractors. The construction industry is a major user of energy resources, and anything that can be done to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint helps all humans. Contractors can start by using natural materials. The Polychemistry website offers a product that does not cause pollution of the environment and is necessary for construction
Natural Stone
Nature designs natural stone so no energy or power is used in its production. It’s a versatile material to use in construction because stone comes in many colors and forms. Further, it’s easy to find a Natural Stone Supplier no matter where you live. Natural stone is sustainable, and its beauty increases with age. By comparison, man-made materials can fade from the sun and deteriorate over time. The older materials go into a landfill and the consumer has to purchase new items.
Natural Materials are Healthier
Humans face less exposure to chemicals and toxins when natural materials are used. Have you ever heard the term sick building? Buildings are classified as sick when they are built with toxic materials that make inhabitants sick over time. It took society years to learn about the dangers of some building materials. Indeed, asbestos was used in countless homes and buildings. Who knows what type of dangers are hidden in man-made laminates and siding? For example, many plastic by-products release toxins. There’s little chance of finding toxins in bamboo, natural wood, and natural stone.
Natural materials should improve the air in a building. For example, paint releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs.) VOCs are responsible for the paint stench that never seems to go away. The EPA says VOCs cause a variety of health problems including nervous system disorders. Consider using natural paints that are made from clay, plant dyes, essential oils, water, and chalk. Paint releases fumes for years contributing to headaches and sinus problems. Natural paint costs more, but the expense is well worth it.
Using Natural Materials Benefits the Local Economy
Natural materials are found everywhere. Hence, contractors can buy materials locally, which serves a two-fold purpose. No fossil fuels are used to ship materials and the contractor boosts the local economy. One architect says when he designs a building, he looks to see what materials are available in the vicinity of the proposed building. Look for local sources of sand, wood, clay, and stone.
Use Recycled Materials
There’s an abundance of recycled building materials. Recycling keeps materials out of the landfill and gives them new life. Engineers in Norway developed a new product called newspaper wood. Newspapers are rolled up and glued together to form a log. The wood is sealed so it’s waterproof and fire-resistant. The wood can be used like any other wood. Can you imagine tiles made from dirty diapers? Manufacturers separate human waste from the polymers in a diaper. The polymers are manufactured into tiles that can be used in roofing.
Some builders use mycelium to make insulation. Mycelium is a material found in rotting tree trunks. Mycelium is placed in a mold and the bacteria grows to whatever shape the builder desires. Afterwards, the material is placed in a hot oven to harden. Further, asphalt may be more durable than asphalt. Plastic byproducts are mixed with asphalt rather than sand and rocks when making asphalt. The material is more durable because asphalt emulsion binds better with plastic.
The environment needs protecting so the earth will be around for years to come. Engineers need to work harder to develop materials that are sustainable. Humans will be healthier and happier and, hopefully, all the landfills will close one day.
