Building Materials and Their Impact on the Environment

Abstract

Traditionally, in the construction sector it has been common to use materials indigenous to the construction site, such as bricks, cork, wood, etc. and this has significantly reduced energy costs and environmental impact. Similarly, there has been an adjustment of building design to local climatic conditions, resulting in improved building quality and thermal comfort for occupants. Currently, the massive use of global materials such as cement, aluminum, concrete, PVC, etc., has led to a significant increase in energy and environmental costs.