choosing sustainable materials

when choosing to incorporate sustainable materials, it’s important to look beyond the immediate cost of the materials. Consider the environmental implications, long-term energy benefits, health incentives, and energy freedom that it gives you. 

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traditional materials weigh heavily on our Big Sky environment with their significant emissions, while sustainable materials last longer, improve indoor air quality, and perform better. It’s our job to make choices that preserve our home and its beauty for future generations to enjoy.

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categories of sustainable materials

recycled materials: recycled  steel, glass, plastic, reclaimed wood

renewable materials: bamboo, cork, hempcrete

low-impact materials: rammed earth, straw bales, compressed earth blocks 

eco-friendly finished: low-VOC paints, natural plasters, and finishes

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planning

assessment: when evaluating your project, explore the potential for incorporating existing materials into the design. Will these materials enhance the performance and resilience of the building? 

design integration: collaborate with architects, builders, and designers with expertise in implementing sustainable materials into their design to develop an effective strategy that is beautiful and enhances the building’s sustainability. 

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sourcing

certified products: source materials from certified suppliers like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Cradle to Cradle to ensure that materials are sourced responsibly and have increased performance features.

installation

best practices: ensure that contractors properly handle, store, and adhere to manufacturer guidelines. 

skilled labor: find contractors with experience using alternative materials. This will help ensure that best practices are followed and that materials are installed correctly to maximize their effectiveness.

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additional elements to consider

lifecycle analysis: a lifecycle analysis measures the total impact of a product from extraction to installation and disposal. The lifecycle analysis stages include: Raw Material Extraction, Materials Processing, Processing of Materials, Product Distribution, Use of Product, and Disposal. 

sourcing: when sourcing materials, look for suppliers that are transparent about the environmental impacts of their materials and prioritize certified, eco-friendly products. Some companies specialize in the sale of reclaimed materials. Incorporating salvaged or repurposed materials into your project can be a great opportunity to further decrease your environmental impact and give your building some character.     

waste reduction: implement strategies that reduce waste and manage materials responsibly. Reducing waste during construction is essential to minimize disrupting the surrounding environment.

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