Every year we dump a massive 2.12 billion tons of waste into our planet. Now imagine the accumulation of that over several years! Material selection will not cut this number in half, but it will prevent us from adding to it when we choose recycled or reused materials. Materials that are non- toxic and non-allergic can also be used which are better for people and the planet.
Examples of such long-lasting materials and their applications include decking made from recycled plastic and wood fibers, durable tile flooring, 50-year roofing materials, and fiber-cement siding. These can outperform their traditional counterparts by reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
Sustainable building materials reduce the impact of your construction on the environment. For example, wood is a renewable resource when you choose a supplier who follows sustainable planting practices, using materials manufactured with natural, renewable materials.