What Does It Mean to Have Sustainable Architecture?

Sustainable architecture is a current trend in modern construction projects.

And it's not surprising. The construction industry is one of the most environmentally harmful, consuming 75% of all natural resources on the planet. Moreover, construction daily generates around 122 tons of waste and debris in Brazil alone. In other words, it's time to start paying for this.

Light at the end of the tunnel — it's in the concepts and practices accepted in sustainable architecture. Let's talk about this?

What Is Sustainable Architecture?

Sustainable architecture is a new approach to designing and building that considers both the functionality of buildings and the processes involved in their construction.

The main goal of sustainable architecture is to minimize the negative impact buildings have on the environment using alternative materials and technologies.

Modern people and nature can coexist in harmony. Evidence of this is smart homes capable of saving resources, reusing materials, and being self-sufficient—especially in terms of energy supply, one of the main factors causing ecological destruction.

Benefits of Sustainable Architecture

Eco-friendliness

One of the first and most important benefits of sustainable architecture is environmental care.

Adopting sustainable construction practices significantly reduces the use of natural resources and waste volumes.

Health Benefits for Residents

Sustainable architecture also provides a higher quality of life and health for residents by offering a healthy living environment with plenty of natural light and ventilation.

Long-term Financial Benefits

In the long run, sustainable architecture brings financial benefits to residents. Self-sufficient homes reduce or even eliminate utility costs such as water, electricity, and gas.

Can you imagine living without bills?

Modern and Functional Design

Contrary to many people's beliefs, sustainable architecture offers very modern and futuristic designs. The use of intelligent materials like solar-coated glass guarantees bold and innovative buildings.

Costs and Sustainable Architecture

Unfortunately, sustainable architecture still faces a barrier due to insufficient information. This leads to many myths surrounding this new approach to construction, especially regarding the cost of work.

Sustainable architecture is still more expensive than traditional methods and may cost up to 30% more.

However, the costs are offset over time. Not to mention that sustainable architecture requires less maintenance, which also affects long-term expenses.

Use of Recycled Materials and Renewable Sources

In sustainable architecture, priority is given to recycled materials and those sourced from renewable resources.

A good example is eco-tiles made from recycled materials such as Tetrapak packaging and PET bottles. Wood materials obtained through reforestation are also commonly used, applied in construction, decoration, furniture, flooring, and ceilings.

On the other hand, materials with high ecological impact such as marble and hardwoods do not belong in sustainable architecture.