Sustainable construction practices embrace an array of environmentally friendly building materials that reduce emissions, require less energy to produce, and are recyclable. Many general contractors have adopted environmentally friendly practices, and the market for sustainable construction materials is expected to continue growing because of strong demand. Here’s a brief overview of three eco-conscious materials to use in your next construction project.

A Brief Guide to 3 Green Building Materials

1. Bamboo

Bamboo is a natural and durable composite that rivals hardwood in strength. It’s sustainable because it self-generates quickly and doesn’t need to be replanted after harvesting. Bamboo starts to grow again without intervention. Some types of bamboo grow up to several feet a day. General contractors can use bamboo in a variety of construction projects, whether for scaffolding, roofing, or flooring.

2. Precast Concrete Slabs

Precast concrete slabs are durable and versatile and deemed sustainable because they’re easy to recycle. Slabs can be efficiently disassembled and reassembled from one construction project to the next. In addition, the manufacture of some types of precast concrete slabs generate up to 75% fewer greenhouse gas emissions. They’re also lightweight, more energy-efficient to transport, and usable in a variety of construction applications, including walls, floors, and roofs.

3. Cork

Cork is harvested from trees that begin to regrow without replanting. Because it’s lightweight, it takes less energy to ship. It can be incorporated into sustainable building projects in a number of ways. For example, cork forms water-resistant flooring tiles and is an effective insulation layer in walls because it deadens sound. 

For help incorporating sustainable materials into your next building project, contact APPRO Development, Inc. & CERRON Commercial Properties, LLC. Serving the Lakeville, MN, region, including Scott, Rice, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, and Steele counties, their general contractors provide an array of services to developers, including buying and leasing commercial property. To learn more, call (952) 469-2171, or learn more.