In recent decades, significant attention has been paid to issues of sustainable development and environmental protection. In the construction industry, one of the most resource-intensive and environmentally significant, this has led to the development and implementation of environmental standards. These standards are aimed at reducing the negative impact on nature and improving the quality of life of people.
Why Environmental Standards Are Important
Environmental standards in construction have several key meanings:
- Conservation of natural resources: Construction traditionally requires large amounts of natural resources such as wood, metal, water and energy. Environmental standards promote the efficient use of these resources, including recycling and reuse of materials.
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions: The construction industry is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. Environmental standards help reduce these emissions by optimizing construction processes and using energy-efficient technologies.
- Health and well-being of people: Environmental standards help improve indoor air quality, which directly impacts the health and comfort of residents. Materials that meet environmental standards generally do not contain harmful chemicals and do not emit toxic fumes.
- Economic benefits: Although implementing green standards may require an initial investment, in the long run it results in lower operating costs due to improved energy efficiency and durability of materials.
Impact of building materials on the environment and human health
Construction materials can have significant impacts on both the environment and human health. These impacts occur at various stages of the material life cycle: raw material extraction, production, transportation, use and disposal.
→ Environmental impact:
- Extraction of raw materials: Extraction of natural resources such as timber or minerals can lead to the destruction of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity and land degradation.
- Manufacturing: Manufacturing processes often involve high energy and water consumption and release pollutants into the atmosphere and water bodies.
- Transportation: Transporting building materials, especially over long distances, contributes to an increased carbon footprint and air pollution.
- Disposal: Non-green materials can create problems at the disposal stage, leading to waste accumulation in landfills and contamination of soil and water.
→ Impact on human health:
- Indoor Air Quality: Many building materials can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which negatively impact indoor air quality and can cause respiratory illnesses, allergies, and other health problems.
- Contact with materials: Some materials may contain toxic substances that may cause harm through direct contact or if released into the environment.
- Noise pollution: Materials that do not have good sound insulation properties can contribute to increased noise levels in living and working spaces, which negatively affects people’s comfort and health.
The Impact of Environmental Standards on the Choice of Materials
Criteria for choosing environmentally friendly materials
When choosing building materials that meet eco-friendly standards, there are several key criteria to consider. These criteria help evaluate materials in terms of their impact on the environment and human health, as well as their durability and sustainability.
Raw materials and resources
Origin of raw materials. It is important to consider what resources the material is made from. Preference is given to materials made from renewable, recycled or recyclable resources. For example, wood should come from certified, sustainably managed forests (FSC or PEFC).
Local Materials : Using local materials reduces transportation costs and associated carbon emissions, and supports the local economy.
Low waste : Materials that are produced with minimal waste and can be easily recycled or disposed of after use are considered more environmentally friendly.
Energy efficiency of production
Energy consumption in production . The energy intensity of producing a material is an important factor. Materials that require less energy to produce have a smaller carbon footprint and are therefore more environmentally friendly.
Renewable energy sources : Preference is given to materials produced using renewable energy sources such as solar, wind or hydropower.
Reducing emissions . It is important to consider the emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants that occur during the production process. Low-emission materials contribute to a better environmental situation.
Impact on health
Indoor Air Quality : Materials that emit minimal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful substances help improve indoor air quality and, therefore, the health of occupants.
Hypoallergenic properties . Materials that do not cause allergic reactions and are safe for people with chemical sensitivities are preferred for use in residential and work areas.
No Toxic Substances : Materials that do not contain toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde, heavy metals and pesticides are safer for human health.
Stability and durability
Durability : Materials that are highly durable and wear-resistant require less frequent replacement and therefore reduce waste and resource consumption in the long run.
Resistance to external influences . Materials that are resistant to moisture, ultraviolet radiation, temperature fluctuations and other external factors ensure a longer service life of buildings and structures.
Supporting a circular economy : Materials that can be reused, recycled or safely disposed of at the end of their life cycle help create closed-loop production processes and reduce waste.
Selecting sustainable materials requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account the origin of raw materials, energy efficiency of production, health impact and sustainability of materials. Compliance with these criteria helps to create greener and safer buildings, contributing to the sustainable development of the construction industry.
