GEN Solution Library/Building with natural materials
About the challenge
To build with materials that are unprocessed and of the earth, having zero or very low embodied energy.
Examples of wood, stone, earth, straw, etc, as the basic building material.
Description
Modern building has become a sophisticated process using highly processed materials and fittings that are part of a huge global industry. Reclaiming power on a local sustainable level and respecting what our local environments can give encourages us to use natural materials from our surroundings. Built to express the local landscape and local traditions such building generally harmonises with the environment and feels a part of it.
It should be noted that natural insulation materials are less efficient than synthetic manufactured insulation and the natural builder should take account of this by thickening the walls, floors and roofs to compensate. Reducing our energy demand is an absolute key requirement of any building.
Areas of impact
Culture
- Art & Celebration.
Ecology
- Green Building.
- Renewable Energy & Transport.
See also
| Authors | Ernesto Sun |
|---|---|
| License | CC-BY-SA-4.0 |
| Organizations | Global Ecovillages Network |
| Ported from | https://www.ecovillage.org/solution/building-with-natural-materials/ (original) |
| Cite as | Ernesto Sun (2025). "GEN Solution Library/Building with natural materials". Appropedia. Retrieved February 26, 2026. |