Choosing the right sustainable building materials is key to reducing environmental impact while improving durability and efficiency.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
✅ What to look for when selecting eco-friendly building materials
✅ A checklist for evaluating sustainability, cost, and durability
✅ How Hillside Development prioritizes green materials in construction
Choosing the Right Sustainable Materials Matter
The materials used in construction significantly impact a building’s carbon footprint, energy efficiency, and overall sustainability. Traditional materials like concrete and steel are resource-intensive, but eco-friendly alternatives can:
1. Lower carbon emissions during production
2. Improve energy efficiency and reduce long-term costs
3. Create healthier indoor environments free from toxic chemicals
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Sustainable Building Materials
1. Environmental Impact
- Look for materials with low embodied carbon (low CO₂ emissions in production)
- Choose rapidly renewable resources like bamboo and cork
- Select recycled or reclaimed materials to reduce landfill waste
Example: Recycled steel reduces CO₂ emissions by 75% compared to new steel (Northspyre, 2023).
2. Durability & Longevity
- The longer a material lasts, the less waste it produces over time
- Mass timber, recycled steel, and rammed earth are highly durable
- Fire-resistant and weatherproof materials improve building lifespan
Example: Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is stronger than concrete while being renewable.
3. Energy Efficiency
- Some materials naturally insulate buildings, reducing energy use
- Mycelium insulation, aerated concrete, and high-performance glass help regulate indoor temperatures
- Passive design strategies can lower HVAC energy costs
Example: Aerated concrete is 50% more energy-efficient than standard concrete.
4. Cost & Availability
- Locally sourced materials reduce transportation emissions and costs
- Some materials (like bamboo) are cheaper and faster to replenish
- While some eco-friendly options have a higher upfront cost, they offer long-term savings
Example: Cork flooring costs less than hardwood while being more sustainable.
5. Certifications & Standards
Look for green certifications to ensure materials meet sustainability criteria:
✅ LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
✅ BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)
✅ Cradle to Cradle Certified™ for truly circular materials
Example: Hillside Development ensures its projects align with LEED and BREEAM standards to maximize sustainability.
Hillside Development is Leading in Sustainable Material Selection
At Hillside Development, we take a materials-first approach to sustainability by:
1. Prioritizing locally sourced and recycled materials
2. Using energy-efficient and carbon-neutral construction techniques
3. Ensuring all materials meet green certification standards
By selecting the right sustainable building materials, we create eco-friendly real estate that benefits both investors and the environment.
Build Smart, Build Gree
Choosing the right sustainable construction materials is essential for creating long-lasting, eco-friendly, and energy-efficient buildings. Whether you’re a developer or homeowner, this checklist can help you make the best green choices for your next project.
💡 Which sustainable material interests you the most? Let us know in the comments!
References:
- Aldar. (2023, December 13). Sustainable building materials for real estate. Retrieved from aldar.com
- Autodesk. (2024, May 23). Top sustainable construction materials to build a better future. Retrieved from autodesk.com
- Northspyre. (2023, June 19). Greening your CRE development: Sustainable materials and… Retrieved from northspyre.com
- Sitg Capital. (2024, July 25). The rise of sustainable real estate: Profit with a purpose. Retrieved from sitgcapital.com
