What role do sustainable materials play in the future of design?

Sustainable materials need to be integrated with sustainable methods and practices. ‘Location specificity’ while designing and building, which involves communities and local skills to create an ecosystem is not easy but is the only way forward.

To unlock their full potential, consider the upstream and downstream benefits and consequences of using sustainable materials. Upstream benefits include moving away from depleting fossil fuels, reducing carbon footprint of material production or perhaps valorizing materials from other waste streams (I.e. used cooking oils). Downstream benefits could include enabling recyclability, re-processability, for longer use life, biodegradability if appropriate. Considering the implications of sustainable materials in different phases of a product's life is key to successful sustainable design.

?? Sustainable materials are integral to the future of commercial interior design, driving the creation of eco-friendly and efficient spaces. In a recent office refurbishment, we chose reclaimed wood flooring and low-VOC paints, reducing environmental impact and promoting a healthier workplace. Using materials like recycled glass, reusing where practicable, and non-toxic finishes allows us to design spaces that are both stylish and sustainable. Prioritising these eco-friendly basics is essential for a more conscientious and sustainable approach to commercial interior design.

Mit einem Blick für Regional- und Stadtentwicklung, finde ich es interessant über Rohstoffe nachzudenken, die entweder in der Stadt oder im Umland angebaut werden k?nnen. Hanf ist – jetzt nach der Legalisierung von Cannabis umso mehr – ein hervorragender Faserwerkstoff, den man für Stoffe und vor allem D?mmaterial für den Hausbau einsetzen kann. Urban produziert würde das nicht nur die CO2-Bilanz durch weniger logistischen Aufwand reduziert, sondern auch den Preis senken.

“Sustainability” had always been the essence in this Mother Earth and we cannot deny the fact that as human beings we can stay out of it . What we need to do as our fundamental responsibility, is to help the Earth and its nature to provide our Living in comfort and harmony with a state of balance . Fossil fuels are the source of energies we have been extracting since ages …. But , do we ever think that there is somewhere a limit to its extinction ?? So , friends , let’s preserve that for our future as much as we can . Re-cycled use of materials which are sustainable in nature should me the new way out in our daily cycle of life , so that there is no extraction or disruption in any form of natural resources. Let’s be strategic in our mind

While recycled materials play a role in sustainable design, prioritizing durability and longevity can sometimes be more impactful in reducing environmental impact. Instead of solely focusing on using recycled materials, emphasize designing products that are built to last and withstand the test of time. By prioritizing durability, you reduce the need for frequent replacements and minimize waste over the product's lifecycle. Additionally, consider incorporating modular or repairable designs that enable easy maintenance and extend the lifespan of your products. This approach not only reduces resource consumption but also promotes a culture of conscious consumption and ownership.

If you are a designer and, like me, intensevely work in the material realm, keep in mind that "recycled" materials aren't all the same and, more importantly, aren't made the same way. When selecting recycled plastics, for instance, it is important to check the following: ?Recyclate content ratio (how much virgin vs how much recycled). ?Source (PIR or PCR aren't interchangeable, the value chain looks different, so does their impact and value). ?Application: does the component of application fits a closed loop system? If not, you are denaturating the very purpose of these materials: being remanufactured or recycled.

While biodegradable materials offer potential benefits, considering their full environmental impact is important in sustainable design. Some biodegradable materials require specific conditions to break down effectively, such as industrial composting facilities, which may not be readily available in all areas. Additionally, the production of certain biodegradable materials can still have significant environmental impacts, such as land use for cultivation or energy-intensive manufacturing processes.Instead of solely relying on biodegradability as a measure of sustainability,prioritize materials that have minimal environmental impact across their entire lifecycle. This may include factors such as resource usage, emissions, and waste generation

?? Integrating Lifecycle Assessment is an important part in the Sustainable Design process. Understanding the difference between upfront cost and environmental cost helps navigate clients on why we choose a certain product over another. In my experience, clients are generally not keen to spend the money but showing the positive impact long term and that it is a return of investment helps get it across the line.

Short term cost cutting results in long term inefficiency and increase in waste. Full lifecycle appraisal of construction techniques and methods are imperative to define scale of economy and efficiency.

Absolutely, considering a material's lifecycle is crucial in sustainable design. It involves assessing the environmental impact of a material from its extraction or creation, through its use, and finally its disposal or recycling. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that designers choose materials that minimize harm to the environment throughout their entire lifespan. By selecting materials with positive lifecycle assessments, designers contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing waste, pollution, and resource depletion.

Even today a large number of lifecycle assessments are not done cradle-to-cradle. This is probably the reason sustainability is still more a financial and green-washing matter than actually implemented.

Absolutely, renewable resources play a crucial role in sustainable design. These materials, such as bamboo, cork, and hemp, can be replenished naturally within a human lifetime, ensuring a continuous supply without depleting the earth's finite resources. By utilizing renewable materials, designers reduce reliance on finite resources like fossil fuels and minerals, thereby minimizing environmental degradation and promoting long-term sustainability. Additionally, supporting industries that prioritize sustainable practices encourages further investment in eco-friendly technologies and promotes the adoption of responsible production methods.

?? Innovation is key to sustainable design as we find new and better products which are developed from unexpected/untraditional sources. As designers understanding the pros and cons of using such products is key to be able to communicate to clients and end users why we have used it. A great example is Cleanstone from Crtitcal NZ, where they repurpose fishing nets into panels and is 100% recycled. Knowing that the product is created by repurposing is a positive effect.

It is necessary to define what a "sustainable material", and for me a "sustainable material" should check these criteria: ?Fit a closed loop system, where remanufacturing comes before recycling. ?Be available and cover demand consistently. ?Have a transparent value chain (DPP). ?Create fair job opportunities. ?Empower the exploit of local resources and waste.

Transparency, closed loop (cradle-to-cradle) systems, and decentralized/local infrastructure development are 3 key factors that can have a significant positive impact on sustainable materials that can facilitate a sustainable and regenerative future.