Living Building Materials Are Going Mainstream - What Does This Mean for Construction in Canada? Posted by Best Access Doors Canada on 7th Aug 2024
As the construction industry looks for sustainable solutions, living building materials are gaining worldwide attention. Living organisms like bacteria and fungi are now used in many countries, including Canada. And as they become mainstream, they are expected to transform the landscape of construction significantly.
In this article, we’ll discuss living building materials, their relevance to building practices, and their great potential for the future of construction in Canada.
What Are Living Building Materials?
Living building materials are not simply inactive substances but dynamic components that can grow, self-heal, and even respond to their environment. They incorporate living organisms or their byproducts into the building fabric, creating structures more in tune with nature.
Here are some examples:
- Mycelium-based Materials: Mycelium, the root network of fungi, can be grown into a strong and lightweight material. It can be used for insulation, fireproofing, and even structural components.
- Bacterial Concrete: This concrete incorporates bacteria that can heal cracks and voids. When water and calcium carbonate are introduced, the bacteria wake up and start producing minerals that fill the cracks, essentially self-healing the concrete.
- Algae-Based Cladding: Algae panels can capture CO2 and produce biofuel, contributing to a building’s energy efficiency and reducing its carbon footprint.
The Rise of Living Building Materials in Canada
The rise of sustainable construction in Canada signals a big transformation with wide-ranging implications, including the following:
Sustainable and Environmental Benefits
Canada's dedication to addressing climate change has increased the demand for eco-friendly components. As a result, many now seek sustainable products like the BAC-PAL insulated aluminum access door, which promotes energy efficiency and sustainability in Canadian buildings through its durable construction and effective insulation.
Similarly, living building materials offer eco-friendly construction benefits. Using biological processes to capture carbon and reduce emissions aligns with Canada's efforts to lessen environmental impact and promote more sustainable buildings.
For example, mycelium-based composites are biodegradable, reducing non-recyclable waste generated by construction projects. Their efficient production processes contribute to lower environmental impact than conventional materials.
Durable Infrastructures
As mentioned, one of the standout features of living building materials is their ability to self-repair. This ability greatly contributes to the durability and longevity of structures, helping to lower maintenance costs and extend the lifespan of structures.
This self-repair feature can be especially beneficial in Canada’s climate. It helps buildings adapt to harsh climates and maintain their strength over time.
Economic Opportunities
Using living building materials can make Canada a leader in sustainable construction. This leadership can attract investment into the construction industry, boost innovation, and create new business opportunities. Startups and established companies could find chances to research, produce, and use the materials.
The innovation can create new jobs in biotechnology, materials science, and green construction practices. Training programs and educational initiatives will prepare the workforce for these emerging roles and ensure that Canada has the labour needed to support this industry's evolution.
To shorten, it could spur innovation and attract investment in the Canadian construction industry, potentially leading to the development of new products and technologies.
Education and Skill Development
Using living building materials in construction needs a skilled workforce familiar with new techniques and technologies. Schools and training centers should update their programs to include this training. This helps current workers stay up to date with the latest industry advancements.
Community and Social Impact
Sustainable construction practices using these materials can strengthen community resilience by creating safer, more durable buildings that withstand natural disasters and other disruptions. They can contribute to healthier indoor areas by reducing toxic materials and improving air quality. This benefits occupants' well-being and productivity, particularly in residential and commercial spaces.
Building Concept Advancement
Adopting living building materials represents a significant evolution in building concepts. This new approach redefines the traditional view of buildings as static structures, seeing them instead as interactive systems. It integrates buildings with their environment, creating a harmonious relationship between the constructed space and the natural world. This method advances the idea that buildings can respond more to their surroundings.
To Sum Up
Integrating living materials into mainstream construction practices represents a pivotal shift towards sustainable, resilient, and environmentally responsible building solutions. Current developments highlight significant technological advancements, a growing emphasis on sustainability, and progressive regulatory frameworks.
Best Access Doors Canada recognizes the significance of integrating living building materials into mainstream construction practices in Canada, understanding their sustainability benefits. With that, we offer a range of sustainable products perfect for modern green buildings.
Request a quote today to explore how our products can complement your eco-friendly projects using living building materials. For personalized assistance in choosing the right solutions, you may also contact our team at (800) 483-0823.