Natural building materials (or biomaterials) have had quite a year! While passive design strategies are integral for reducing the operational carbon of buildings, more and more people are realizing that natural materials can help cut back buildings' embodied carbon. Fast-growing plants like grain-producers and hemp pull carbon dioxide from the air during photosynthesis. That carbon dioxide is stored in the plants' fibers, which are then processed and converted into high-performance building materials like straw-structural insulated panels and hempcrete. These products reduce our reliance on carbon-intensive materials like concrete and steel while also serving as carbon sinks for the duration of their useful life.

Additionally, by using natural materials, we can eliminate volatile chemicals from the built environment, resulting in better indoor air quality for occupants and safer working conditions for builders and tradespeople. You can learn more about these benefits and more by checking out the articles, videos, and podcasts below!