Sustainable Constructions: Why we should decide on bioconstruction as an ecological alternative to conventional building
- 2018
“The dichotomy between development and sustainability is false. Without a planet, there is no economy that is worth it. ”
Al Gore.
In these times, there is an increasing urgency to become aware of ecological health . Measures such as sustainable construction, selective waste collection, respect for green spaces, the promotion of recycling practice are some examples of a growing wave of this environmentalism .
And the truth is that at some point, we will all end up taking a green conscience . For our planet has shown that it gradually loses its ability to be self-sustaining .
Whether this is caused by human action or not, we are currently in need of doing something about it.
Thus, he gradually begins to turn to some ancient and wise practices of times when respect for nature was a matter of common sense .
One of the most interesting practices that is beginning to gain ground is that of Bioconstruction .
Let's see what this is about sustainable constructions, and what are the advantages they have to offer us.
Defining sustainable constructions
Well, let's see what is green building .
There are those who believe that it is simply buildings that have less impact on the environment, others say that it is the building and the surrounding space.
It turns out that both are right, but this definition is incomplete .
Sustainable constructions are, in reality, a building project focused on preserving most of the natural environment, while at the same time producing a functional building or dwelling. These operations promote ecological health for all involved, and will not have a negative impact on the land, water, resources and energy that surrounds them.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency says that bioconstruction is the practice of creating structures using processes that are ecologically responsible and resource efficient throughout the building's life cycle . Covering the design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and deconstruction processes.
Simply put, sustainable construction minimizes and even eliminates the negative impact, and creates positive impacts on our climate and environment.
Why choose sustainable constructions
Let us then see the advantages that the practice of bioconstruction can bring us.
When you enter ecological awareness practices, you are significantly reducing your carbon footprint . That is, the emission of the gases that cause the greenhouse effect. That way, you can join the group of people who, from all over the world, care about tilting the balance in favor of the health of the planet .
Although there are thousands of ways to participate in the promotion of ecological awareness, the implementation of sustainable constructions is one of the greatest contributions in the medium and long term. In any case, all green activity is a contribution, and some are quicker to implement, such as the reduction of waste and pollution such as the efficient use of electricity, water and other resources.
Comparing costs
Some people believe that the practice of sustainable construction means a higher economic cost. However, this is far from true .
Although the initial investment may seem a little greater when deciding on the bio-construction, the truth is that many of the materials used are provided by the environment . The mud houses are built from clay, water, corsages of dried cereals, stones, sand or earth. Obviously extracted respectfully, but none of this would make sense.
In addition, it is constructed in a planned way to intelligently take advantage of daylight, which is a lower energy expenditure . They are also more efficient in terms of thermal inertia and temperature conservation.
In addition, the materials can be reused in case of need of spare parts. The paints are usually based on clay and linseed oil varnishes.
In this way, from any point of view you could consider green building a bad idea .
Benefits of sustainable constructions
In addition to the economic benefits that we have just named, the development of these techniques allows us to tip the balance towards the environment . Reducing water waste is one of the most notorious emergencies of these times. The preservation of natural resources and the protection of biodiversity are some of the benefits we bring with this practice.
At the same time, the improvement in air and water quality is also an important contribution to our health that directly impacts our well-being .
In addition, the reuse and durability of sustainable building materials is much greater because it respects the standards of the environment in which it is located, and by adapting to it, the environment does not undermine construction.
Perhaps one of the things that have impacted me the most has been to see people actively participate in the construction of their own home . Man, women and children, playing with mud.
The objective of sustainable constructions
When considering the possibility of bioconstruction, the easiest objective to appreciate is to make the planet a more sustainable place. Although in reality, the goal is bigger and deeper.
When you decide to act with green awareness, you begin to sustain and participate in the environment without intervening in the natural flow of the earth's habitats. If your project breaks into a habitat, you can cause a detrimental impact on natural life .
Even the slightest change can help promote the health of our planet, and the collective formation of a better place to live for everyone. Not only people, but also plants and other animals that inhabit the earth with us.
As you can see, green consciousness is something we should all participate in.
You don't need to rebuild your house, just implement changes. You can start by using energy and water wisely .
Become aware, and lead by example.
The land you come from is calling you. He needs your help.
We all need it.
Join in
AUTHOR: Lucas, editor of the great family of hermandadblanca.org
SOURCES:
- http://www.ecohabitar.org/bioconstruccion-pautas-y-materiales/
- https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/green-building.php/
- https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bioconstrucci%C3%B3n
