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GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS

Article in INTERANTIONAL JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH IN ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT · December 2023
DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM27437

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 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 12 | December - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS

Gayathri S Shivakumar
Associate Professor, BMS School of Architecture, Bengaluru, gayathrisrinivas.1920@gmail.com

ABSTRACT:

The adoption of green building materials has become paramount in the global construction industry to
mitigate environmental impact and promote sustainable development. This research paper provides a
comprehensive review of green building materials, their significance, and their impact on sustainable
construction practices. It discusses the various categories of green building materials, their advantages,
challenges, and the latest developments in this field.

INTRODUCTION

The use of green building materials has gained considerable significance in recent years as societies
worldwide strive to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable development. Green building
materials play a pivotal role in constructing structures that minimize their impact on the environment
throughout their lifecycle, from production to construction, occupancy, and eventual demolition or
deconstruction.

The significance of green building materials lies in their ability to mitigate the environmental footprint
associated with traditional construction practices. These materials are designed and selected with a focus
on reducing resource consumption, energy usage, and waste generation. They contribute to the creation of
environmentally responsible buildings that are not only energy-efficient but also healthier for occupants.
One key aspect of the significance of green building materials is their potential to enhance energy
efficiency. Many green materials possess superior insulating properties, helping to regulate indoor
temperatures and reduce the need for excessive heating or cooling. This, in turn, lowers energy
consumption, leading to decreased greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller overall environmental impact.
Another critical dimension is the conservation of natural resources. Traditional construction materials often
involve the extraction of non-renewable resources, contributing to habitat destruction and ecosystem

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM27437 | Page 1

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 12 | December - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

degradation. Green building materials, on the other hand, are frequently sourced from rapidly renewable or
recycled materials, minimizing the depletion of finite resources and promoting a more circular economy.
Furthermore, green building materials prioritize indoor air quality and occupant health. Many conventional
construction materials emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants that can adversely
affect the well-being of those within a structure. Green materials are selected for their low VOC emissions
and non-toxic properties, fostering healthier living and working environments.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS OF GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS:

1. Resource Efficiency: Green building materials are often sourced from renewable or recycled
materials, reducing the demand for virgin resources.They aim to minimize resource extraction,
depletion, and the environmental impact associated with traditional building materials.
2. Energy Efficiency: The production, transportation, and installation of green building materials
typically involve lower energy consumption compared to conventional materials. These materials
may contribute to better insulation and energy performance in buildings, reducing the need for
artificial heating or cooling.
3. Reduced Environment Impact: Green building materials aim to minimize environmental
pollution, emissions, and waste generation during manufacturing, use, and disposal. They may have
lower levels of harmful chemicals and pollutants, contributing to healthier indoor air quality.
4. Durability and Longevity: Green building materials are often selected for their durability and long
lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and the associated environmental impact. Durable
materials contribute to the longevity and resilience of buildings.
5. Recyclability and Reusability: Many green building materials are designed to be recyclable or
reusable at the end of their life cycle, promoting a closed-loop system. Recycling and reusing
materials help minimize waste and conserve resources.
6. Renewable Materials: Green building materials may be derived from rapidly renewable resources,
such as bamboo, cork, or certain types of wood that can be harvested sustainably. These materials
are replenished quickly, reducing the depletion of finite resources.
7. Low Embodied Carbon: The embodied carbon of a material refers to the total greenhouse gas
emissions associated with its production, transportation, and installation. Green building materials
often have a lower embodied carbon compared to traditional counterparts.

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 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 12 | December - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

8. Water Efficiency: Some green building materials focus on water conservation, either by using less
water during production or by contributing to efficient water use within buildings. Water-efficient
materials may also help manage stormwater runoff effectively.
9. Biodegradability: Certain green building materials are designed to be biodegradable, meaning they
can naturally break down at the end of their life cycle without causing harm to the environment.
10. Innovation and Advancements: Green building materials often incorporate innovative
technologies and advancements to improve their sustainability and performance.

CATEGORIES OF GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS:

RECYCLED BUILDING MATERIALS RECLAIMED BUILDING MATERIALS
1. Recycled Concrete Aggregate 1. Reclaimed Brick
2. Recycled Steel 2. Reclaimed Wood Flooring
3. Recycled Plastic 3. Reclaimed Metal
4. Recycled Glass 4. Reclaimed Stone
5. Recycled Wood 5. Reclaimed Glass Blocks
BENEFITS OF USING RECYCLED & RECLAIMED MATERIALS:

▪ Environmental Conservation: Reduces the need for new resource extraction and
minimizes the environmental impact associated with the production of virgin materials.
▪ Waste Reduction: Diverts construction and demolition waste from landfills, contributing
to sustainable waste management practices.
▪ Energy Savings: Requires less energy in processing compared to the production of new
materials, leading to lower carbon emissions.
▪ Preservation of Character: Gives a unique and historical character to structures by
incorporating materials with a history.
▪ Economic Benefits: Supports local economies by salvaging and reusing materials locally,
creating job opportunities in the reclamation and recycling industries.
Incorporating recycled and reclaimed building materials into construction projects aligns with
sustainable building practices and promotes a more circular and environmentally friendly
approach to the construction industry.

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM27437 | Page 3

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 12 | December - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

The following types of materials are used in the green building construction.
1. Bamboo
2. Recycled Steel
3. Rammed Earth
4. Hempcrete
5. Straw Bales
6. Recycled Plastic Lumber
7. Cork
Low Impact Building Materials
8. Reclaimed Wood
9. Solar Tiles
10. Cellulose Insulation
11. Natural Fiber Carpets
12. Low VOC Paints
13. Permeable Paving

1. Wood
2. Bamboo
3. Cork
4. Straw Bales
5. Hempcrete
6. Linoleum
Renewable Materials 7. Coconut Timber
8. Rattan Vine
9. Sunflower Husks
10. Wool Insulation
11. Recycled Cotton
12. Mycelium Board

1. Local Timber
2. Stone
Locally Sourced Materials
3. Bricks
4. Adobe or Earth Blocks

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM27437 | Page 4

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 12 | December - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

5. Gravel & Aggregates

6. Clay
7. Reclaimed or Salvaged Materials
8. Local Metal
9. Local Concrete
10. Local Insulation Materials
11. Regional Plants for Landscaping

1. Cellulose Insulation
2. Sheep’s Wool Insulation
3. Cotton Insulation
4. Recycled PET Insulation
5. Hemp Insulation
6. Cork Insulation
7. Recycled Fiberglass Insulation
8. Aerogel Insultion
Eco friendly Insulation
9. Polystyrene-Free Insulation
10. Mycelium Insulation
11. Straw Bales
12. Aircrete Blocks
13. Natural Fiber Boards
14. Wood Fiber Insulation
15. Recycled Rubber Insulation

1. Low VOC Paints

2. Natural Clay Plaster
3. Natural Fiber Carpets
4. Lineleum Flooring
Non-Toxic Materials
5. Cork Flooring
6. Natural Hardwood Flooring
7. Gypsum Board with Low Voc Adhesives
8. Natural Insulation Materials

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM27437 | Page 5

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 12 | December - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

9. Unpainted or Unfinished Wood Furniture

10. Bamboo Flooring
11. Recycled Glass Countertops
12. Natural Stone
13. Natural Fiber Wall Coverings
14. Non-Toxic Sealants and Adhesives
15. Recycled Metal

ADVANTAGES OF GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS:

Environmental Benefits:
1. Resource Conservation: Green building materials often involve the use of recycled,
reclaimed, or rapidly renewable resources, reducing the demand for virgin materials and
minimizing the depletion of natural resources.
2. Energy Efficiency: Many green materials contribute to improved energy efficiency in
buildings. For example, better insulation materials reduce the need for heating and cooling,
leading to reduced energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Reduced Carbon Footprint: The production of traditional construction materials can be
energy-intensive and result in significant carbon emissions. Green materials, such as
recycled steel or low-impact concrete, often have a lower carbon footprint, contributing to
overall emissions reduction.
4. Waste Reduction: Green building practices prioritize minimizing construction and
demolition waste by using materials that are recyclable, reusable, or biodegradable. This
reduces the burden on landfills and promotes a more sustainable approach to waste
management.
5. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Many green materials are selected for their low emissions of
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful substances, contributing to healthier
indoor air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory issues.
6. Water Conservation: Some green building materials, such as low-flow plumbing fixtures
and water-efficient landscaping materials, contribute to water conservation, addressing
concerns related to water scarcity.

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM27437 | Page 6

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 12 | December - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

7. Biodiversity Preservation: Some green building materials, such as low-flow plumbing

fixtures and water-efficient landscaping materials, contribute to water conservation,
addressing concerns related to water scarcity.
Economic Benefits
1. Energy Cost Savings: Green building materials and energy-efficient design features can
result in lower energy consumption, leading to reduced energy costs over the operational
life of a building.
2. Long-Term Cost Savings: Green building materials and energy-efficient design features can
result in lower energy consumption, leading to reduced energy costs over the operational
life of a building.
3. Job Creation: The production and installation of green building materials contribute to job
creation in the sustainable construction and manufacturing sectors.
4. Increased Property Value: Green buildings are often perceived as more valuable due to their
energy efficiency, sustainable features, and lower operating costs. This can result in
increased property values and market demand.
5. Incentives and Certifications: Governments and organizations often provide incentives, tax
credits, or certifications for green building practices, encouraging the adoption of
environmentally friendly materials and construction methods.
Health Benefits
1. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Low-emission and non-toxic materials contribute to healthier
indoor air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems
associated with poor air quality.
2. Natural Light & Ventilation: Green building design often incorporates features like ample
natural light and effective ventilation, promoting a more comfortable and healthier indoor
environment.
3. Noise Reduction: Some green materials, such as natural fiber insulation or acoustic panels,
contribute to noise reduction, creating a more pleasant and stress-free indoor environment.
4. Biophilic Design: Incorporating natural elements and green spaces in building design
(biophilic design) has been shown to reduce stress, enhance mood, and improve overall
mental well-being.

© 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM27437 | Page 7

 International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM)
Volume: 07 Issue: 12 | December - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930

CONCLUSION
The adoption of green building materials offers a holistic approach to sustainable construction,
benefiting the environment, the economy, and the health and well-being of building occupants.
As awareness of these benefits grows, there is an increasing trend toward incorporating green
building practices into construction projects worldwide.

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