It’s not yet widely known that the construction industry is a huge source of pollution and waste. Additionally, chemical sensitivities are increasingly common. Many of the fibers and materials people use in business buildings and homes offgas chemicals. The transport and packaging of these materials also creates a lot of waste.
“According to new research by construction blog Bimhow, the construction sector currently contributes 23% of air pollution, 50% of the climate change causing waste products, 40% of drinking water pollution, and 50% of landfill wastes. In separate research by the U.S. Green Building Council, the construction industry accounts for 40% of worldwide energy usage, not including ongoing energy use.” (via The Abundant Edge)
Natural building methods and regenerative building reference traditional building techniques used in place-specific cultures. Cobb building, hempcrete, and bamboo construction are three examples of this. Mycelium-based insulation from mushrooms is another example. Whatever building materials are used, it is also possible to design buildings that are net zero and net positive in terms of energy useage.
This wiki article is an index of techniques and resources for further information, as well as organizations that focus on this space.
- Cobb Building (pictures)
- Hempcrete Building (pictures)
- Bamboo Building (pictures)
- FYI, insulation can be a concern in all those structures if building in a cold climate. Do your research.
- How-to pages for natural building – which ones are good? Please add to this wiki entry.
- The Abundant Edge design criteria for a regenerative lifestyle – Information and statistics about pollution and waste in the construction industry, and why natural building is healthy for you, your garden, community, and the environment.
- International Living Future Institute – This website has a glossary related to what they call living buildings: certifications, labels, and initiatives, as well as case studies of zero energy buildings and living communities.
- Ways to retrofit buildings to reach net zero or net positive energy
- How to grow your own mycelium insulation
- Companies making mycelium insulation and packaging