What are the benefits of using sustainable materials in design projects?

we use natural materials such as cotton, linen, wool, goose down, and feather because they are better for the human body and for the environment. Despite great technological advances, the softness, freshness, and thermo regulation capabilities of natural materials have no comparison.

Investing in sustainable materials is economically wise long-term. Beyond durability and cost savings, IT integration enhances these benefits. For example, IoT sensors and data analytics can monitor sustainable materials' performance, optimizing maintenance and reducing unexpected costs. In a past project, we used smart building systems with sustainable materials. Real-time tracking allowed proactive maintenance, extending material lifespan and saving costs. This also provided valuable data for future projects. Moreover, promoting sustainability through digital platforms can boost brand reputation and attract eco-conscious customers. Combining sustainability with IT solutions drives both environmental and economic benefits.

With the current exponential increase in consumption is causing the planet to start to drown in waste. Disposal of it leaks chemicals into the ground and water which then affects our society all over the world. And it's not just waste, sustainability brings into question how we address the imbalance within our society and the fairness of work evaluation, pay gaps, and wealth distribution. An ethical approach is an essential part of sustainability.

Integrating IT into sustainable design amplifies these benefits. For instance, using AI and machine learning can optimize material usage, reduce waste, and predict the environmental impact of design choices. Additionally, digital twins can simulate and analyze sustainable designs before physical production, ensuring efficiency and reducing resource consumption. Blockchain technology can ensure transparency in sourcing sustainable materials, building consumer trust and aligning with ethical standards. By combining sustainability with advanced IT solutions, designers can create unique, market-leading products that balance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility.

We got so used to certain materials (*cough *plastic * cough*) for their convenience, lightweight, and other capabilities that it is a painful process to try and come up with alternatives. But I dare to say that's when something exciting happens, progress and innovation. The more stricter or seemingly impossible the boundaries the greater is the chance for creativity and unusual solutions. Sustainability especially creates amazing opportunities and challenges for improvement.

Sustainability is not a niche, it's a long-overdue necessity. Using compliant materials is therefore something that will set you up for success in the long run. With rising consumption is highly unlikely that anything but biodegradable and circular materials will be able to make a difference. So if you're just starting out and brainstorming potential materials, look for the most eco-friendly options.

Using sustainable materials is a very visible way to demonstrate sustainability commitments, where as other sustainable design strategies, like reducing energy consumption in electronics, can often be hidden. You shouldn't only do it for that reason (always follow the hotspots / big impact areas, or u risk greenwash) but it is true that sustainable materials can have the added benefit of being visually green as well.