Regenerative Insights: Innovative Materials Shaping Sustainable Construction
Christopher Marquis
Professor at Cambridge. Author of “THE PROFITEERS: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost”; "MAO AND MARKETS” (a FT Best Book of 2022); "BETTER BUSINESS: How the B Corp Movement is Remaking Capitalism"
This week, we explore innovative approaches transforming the construction and marine industries towards sustainability. From timber to recycled materials, these advancements highlight a collective push among actors in those industries for innovation in ways that are not only in many cases more efficient, but importantly also more sustainable.
For example, cross laminated timber (CLT) is revolutionizing sustainable construction by offering a low-carbon alternative to concrete. Construction giant CRH has developed a new strategy of using reclaimed materials, and Brock’s Wood Lot repurposes wildfire debris into firewood, supporting local recovery efforts in areas hit by wildfires. Additionally, researchers at the University of Texas are enhancing soil health with recycled glass, promoting agricultural sustainability. Also on the materials front, Sustainable Sailing is turning waste PET sailcloth into valuable chemicals, reducing fossil fuel dependence.
Our highlighted research paper shows how biocultural innovation blends Indigenous knowledge with ecological practices to address climate change and sustainability. This approach not only regenerates ecosystems but also fosters community well-being, offering practical solutions for today’s global challenges.
Stay inspired and build sustainably!
Essential Reads:
Sustainable Timber Construction
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is emerging as a greener alternative to concrete in sustainable construction. It reduces the environmental footprint by embracing eco-friendly practices, addressing the significant CO2 emissions from concrete production, and supporting industry trends towards environmental sustainability.
Sustainable Construction Strategy
CRH focuses on generating revenue from climate-resilient and low-emission products. By using reclaimed materials and collaborating on innovative projects, CRH supports the circular economy and reduces the need for virgin materials, aligning with sustainability goals in the construction industry.
Wildfire Recovery Wood Processing
Brock’s Wood Lot in Oakridge, Oregon, repurposes wildfire and logging debris into usable firewood. This initiative supports the local economy, improves air quality, and plans to expand operations into a regional wood resource hub, contributing to wildfire recovery and sustainability.
Recycled Glass Soil Amendment
Researchers at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley explore using recycled glass as a sustainable soil amendment. This material improves soil properties, reduces fungal issues, and supports plant growth, offering a potential solution for landfill waste reduction and agricultural sustainability.
Repurposing Waste Sails
Sustainable Sailing transforms waste sails into high-value chemicals by breaking down PET sailcloth. This circular recycling process reduces reliance on virgin fossil fuels and promotes sustainability in the marine industry, offering a greener alternative for managing technical textiles.
Research Corner:
This research explores biocultural innovation, a concept merging traditional Indigenous knowledge with ecological practices. By tapping into both cultural wisdom and natural resources, biocultural innovation offers a transformative approach to solving global challenges such as climate change, sustainability, and inequality. It highlights the potential to unlock new economic and social value, driving innovation that regenerates ecosystems and fosters intergenerational well-being
Quick Takeaways:
Thank you for sharing these insights and links to learning more.