Nowadays, more and more people are choosing to consume organic products and adopt healthier habits. This movement stems from the growing awareness of the presence of chemicals, many of them toxic, in the food we buy in supermarkets and other everyday aspects of our lives. However, what many ignore is that Our home can also be a source of harmful substances due to the use of materials containing harmful chemicals.
Surprisingly, these toxic elements are not only present in food or air pollution, but also in Construction materials used in our homes. A common example is cement, which is used predominantly in home construction and can contain heavy metals such as chromium and zinc. Petroleum-based paints and varnishes also emit volatile compounds such as toluene and xylene, which are detrimental to indoor air quality.
It is in this context that the bioconstruction, an alternative that seeks to design healthier, more ecological and energy-efficient homes, using natural materials that not only benefit the environment, but also have a positive impact on the health of their occupants.
Eco-friendly homes: Health, comfort and efficiency
An ecological home is not only characterized by the use of natural materials, but also takes advantage of the benefits of bioclimatic architecture and the implementation of renewable energies. This type of construction allows homes to adapt to the climatic conditions of the environment, optimizing the use of resources such as sunlight, natural ventilation and rainwater. All this translates into greater Energy Efficiency , economic savings and a significant reduction in the environmental impact of the home.
Bioclimatic design is crucial in green construction, as it allows reducing or even eliminating the need for artificial air conditioning systems, minimising energy consumption. In turn, the materials used, such as wood, stone and plant fibres, are natural, renewable and come from local sources, which reduces the ecological footprint of the project in all its phases: from the extraction of the material to its end of useful life.
The main advantages of these homes include:
- Better interior comfort thanks to natural materials, which also regulate temperature and humidity efficiently.
- Reduction in the use of toxic chemicals and polluting materials.
- The possibility of integrating systems of renewable energy, such as solar panels or rainwater harvesting systems.
What should we take into account in green building?
Planning a green construction project requires, above all, having the advice of a Expert in eco-architectureAlthough conventional architects are well versed in traditional construction methods, it is essential to turn to a professional specialized in this type of project, since it is a different branch within construction.
Another key aspect is to carry out a geobiological study of the terrain, since it will allow identifying possible natural alterations such as geological faults, underground water currents, electromagnetic fields originating from nearby power lines or mobile phone stations, as well as the possible presence of radon gas in the area. This will mitigate any risks that may arise during construction or in the long term, ensuring a healthy and problem-free home.
With the information gathered and the design adapted to the needs of the future owners, we can move forward with the project. The key is to always integrate all phases of the project with sustainability criteria in mind.
Natural materials in green construction
One of the fundamental pillars of green construction is the choice of materials. These must meet the criteria of sustainability, health and energy efficiency. Among the most commonly used materials are:
1. Wood: Ideal for structures and finishes. It is a renewable resource when it comes from controlled and certified operations such as FSC. In addition, it has excellent insulating properties and is a very versatile material in terms of design.
2. Adobe and rammed earth (compacted earth): These ancient materials allow for the creation of thermally efficient and highly durable structures. They are also easy to maintain and allow the walls to breathe.
3. Stone: It is one of the most durable materials and has excellent performance against thermal inertia, allowing homes to be kept cool in summer and warm in winter.
4. Natural insulation: They are crucial for the thermal performance of the home. Among the most commonly used are cellulose, wood fibre and cork, due to their thermal and acoustic qualities. These materials allow for greater energy efficiency and are completely free of toxic elements.
5. Vegetable fibers: Linen, hemp or straw are other natural insulators that, in addition to being renewable and biodegradable, provide excellent air tightness.
Environmental impact of construction materials
Bioconstruction is distinguished by a comprehensive approach to Lifecycle of the materials used. It is not just about building with natural resources, but also about evaluating how they impact the environment from their extraction to their final disposal or reuse. Using materials such as wood or adobe not only contributes to reducing emissions, but also promotes a circular economy in which the waste produced is minimal and the resources used to the maximum.
New synthetic and conventional construction materials have generated high environmental costs, and often have problems such as toxicity, lack of perspiration and electromagnetic field interference. On the other hand, green construction is based on using materials that guarantee the occupant comfort, but also long-term security and sustainability.
Bala-box project: an example of ecological bioconstruction
A Spanish initiative that stands out in the field of green construction is the Bala-box project, which consists of a small house made with prefabricated blocks of wood and straw. This proposal exemplifies how green construction can be accessible, healthy and efficient. These types of buildings not only reduce the environmental impact, but are also highly energy efficientThe techniques used and the choice of materials ensure that each of the fundamental aspects of green construction is perfectly fulfilled, from the choice of materials to the bioclimatic design.
With the growing need for more sustainable, ecological and healthy housing, bioconstruction continues to position itself as an increasingly viable and sought-after alternative in the field of modern architecture. Together with bioclimatic technology, it guarantees durability, efficiency and a minimal impact on the environment.
Investing in this type of construction means ensuring a balance between development and respect for our natural environment, while offering a healthier and more efficient habitat in the long term.