In recent years, Italy has seen a surge in the use of materials such as wood, bamboo, straw, and recycled materials. This shift is being driven by a number of factors, including the country’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact, the availability of new technologies and materials, and the growing demand for sustainable homes from consumers.

One of the most significant drivers of the shift to sustainable home construction in Italy has been the country’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact. In 2015, Italy signed the Paris Agreement, an international agreement to combat climate change. As part of its commitment to the agreement, Italy has set a target of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by 2030 according to Reuters. The use of sustainable home construction materials is seen as a key way to achieve this target.

Environmental Benefits of Using Sustainable Home Construction Materials in Italy

The construction industry is one of the largest contributors to climate change, accounting for around 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions according to Deloitte. In Italy, the construction sector is responsible for around 36% of the country’s total emissions according to the International Energy Agency.

There are a number of ways to reduce the environmental impact of construction, one of which is to use sustainable home construction materials. Using sustainable home construction materials can help to reduce the environmental impact of construction and improve the quality of life for residents. 

Sustainable home construction materials often have a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional materials. They are produced using processes that consume less energy and release fewer greenhouse gas emissions. By using these materials, the overall carbon emissions associated with building construction can be significantly reduced, contributing to the fight against climate change.

Sustainable materials can enhance a home’s energy efficiency. For instance, insulation made from natural and renewable materials, such as cellulose or sheep’s wool, can improve thermal performance, reducing the need for heating or cooling. Similarly, energy-efficient windows and doors made from advanced materials help to minimize heat loss or gain, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

By adopting sustainable home construction materials in Italy, these environmental benefits can collectively contribute to the conservation of natural resources and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Economic Benefits of Using Sustainable Home Construction Materials in Italy

There are many economic benefits of using sustainable home construction materials in Italy. They can help reduce energy costs by making homes more energy efficient. This can save homeowners money on their utility bills each month.

Sustainable homes also tend to have a higher property value than traditional homes. This is because they are more attractive to buyers who are looking for homes that are environmentally friendly. In addition, they reduce maintenance costs by making homes more durable. This means that homeowners will have to spend less money on repairs and replacements over the life of the home.

The construction and use of sustainable materials in Italy can also create jobs in the manufacturing, installation, and maintenance sectors. This can help boost the economy and create a more sustainable workforce in the country.

Buildings in Italy that Utilize Sustainable Home Construction Materials

Italy is a country with a rich history of architecture and design. In recent years, the country has also become a leader in sustainable building. There are many reasons for this, including the country’s commitment to environmental protection, its rich tradition of craftsmanship, and its focus on innovation.

There are many examples of sustainable buildings in Italy. One of the most notable is the Bosco Verticale, a pair of residential skyscrapers in Milan that are covered in trees. The trees help to improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and provide a habitat for wildlife.

Another example of a sustainable building in Italy is the Fiorita Passive House, a multi-residence in Cesena that is made with XLAM wood. The building is certified by the Passive Hause Institut of Damstraat and is highly energy-efficient. The country is leading the way in this field and is setting an example for other countries to follow.

Why We Should Shift to Sustainable Home Construction Materials

Embracing sustainable home construction materials is more than just a trend. It’s a lifestyle choice that allows us to create homes that are not only beautiful and functional but also environmentally responsible. In the quest for a greener and more sustainable future, the shift toward using sustainable home construction materials is a necessary choice that we should make.

At BillionBricks, we use sustainable home construction materials in building our net zero homes and communities. To know more about our BillionBricks and our net-zero homes and communities, please email us at hello@billionbricks.org

Sources

1. NSS Magazine. (2021). 7 Sustainable Building in Italy. Retrieved from https://www.nssmag.com/en/art-design/26679/7-edifici-green-italia

2. Forest Homes. (n.d.). Discover benefits of using sustainable materials that you may ignore. Retrieved from https://www.foresthomesstore.com/blogs/decor-for-wellbeing/benefits-of-using-earth-sustainable-materials-every-day

3. Proaxxes. (n.d.). Sustainable Building: Which circular materials are taking hold in Italy? Retrieved from https://proaxxes.com/which-circular-materials-are-taking-hold-in-italy/

4. OMICS Online. (2017). Sustainable Building Materials for Low-cost Housing and the Challenges Facing their Technological Developments. Retrieved from https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/sustainable-building-materials-for-lowcost-housing-and-the-challengesfacing-their-technological-developments-examples-and-lessonsr-2168-9717-1000187.php?aid=89789

5. Reuters. (2021). Italy says it plans to cut carbon emission by 60% by 2030. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/article/us-italy-climate-minister-idUSKBN2B31ML

6. Deloitte. (n.d.) Putting the construction sector at the core of the climate change debate. Retrieved from https://www2.deloitte.com/ce/en/pages/real-estate/articles/putting-the-construction-sector-at-the-core-of-the-climate-change-debate.html

7. International Energy Agency. (n.d.). Global Status Report for Building and Construction 2019. Retrieved from https://www.iea.org/reports/global-status-report-for-buildings-and-construction-2019