Unfortunately, the future of the planet is in question. Problems like pollution, global warming, and the destruction of natural ecosystems present serious threats to the environment. Staving off these threats and preserving the earth for future generations requires substantive action by businesses and individuals alike. One strategy for becoming greener is to choose more eco-friendly building materials. Below are a few materials that you may be surprised to learn are low-impact on the environment.

Engineered Wood

When you think of wood as a building material, you may assume that it is significantly wasteful. This is not necessarily the case for a form of wood known as engineered wood. This form of wood includes multiple layers. Some of these layers are composed of things like wood scraps that would have been disposed of otherwise. Reusing these wood scraps in engineered wood allows fewer trees to be cut down. You can use engineered wood for flooring, doors, and many other components of a building project.

Structural Steel

Something else that you may assume can't be eco-friendly is steel. However, this is not true when it comes to structural steel. Prefabricated steel helps to streamline the construction process. As such, a structural steel erection can be performed quicker, producing less waste and lowering the energy requirements for the work. 

Steel is, of course, very strong and can support more energy saving insulation in a building. It is also very durable, meaning it won’t need to be replaced any time soon. When it is time to replace the steel frame, steel is easy to recycle.

Wool Insulation

When you think of building materials, sheep probably don't come to mind. However, wool is now being used as a greener choice for insulation in buildings and homes. It actually produces stronger insulation than other choices and does a better job of dealing with moisture as well. Wool, of course, is also a sustainable resource. A sheep can always grow more of it.

Fiber Cement

Lastly, fiber cement can be a more eco-friendly choice for your building project. The production of fiber cement involves recycled materials and far less water than regular cement, making it a much more sustainable option. It's a great choice to use for siding for a home or other building. Fiber cement does not contain toxic materials like other siding choices such as vinyl. It will also be stronger, longer lasting, and more resistant to the elements than other choices as well.

Choosing more eco-friendly building materials can help to lessen your construction project's effect on the environment. Doing so can help to preserve precious natural resources and can help to slash your expenses at the same time. The list above is only a starting point for the different environmentally friendly building materials you can choose from.