Smart Choices in Construction: 7 Reasons to Build with Sustainable Materials

Incorporating sustainable materials into construction has become a vital practice for creating environmentally responsible, cost-efficient, and healthier living and working environments. Martin Simmons Sweers (MSS) advocates for sustainable materials in modern construction for several reasons, including their ability to reduce environmental impact, enhance energy efficiency, and promote long-term durability. Here are seven key reasons why MSS is committed to using sustainable materials in all its projects:

1. Environmental Protection

Recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship, MSS encourages the adoption of sustainable building materials to help reduce the significant impact built environments can have on the planet. Reclaimed wood is a perfect example of how materials can be repurposed to protect natural resources. Using reclaimed wood in design not only adds great character, it decreases the demand for newly harvested wood, helping to reduce deforestation. Repurposing materials that might otherwise be discarded minimizes the amount of waste going to landfills and lowers the carbon footprint associated with the production and transportation of new materials.

2. Health Benefits

Indoor air quality is a critical aspect of any building. Sustainable materials with low-VOCs (volatile organic compounds) significantly enhance indoor air quality by reducing exposure to harmful toxins and allergens. People are indoors for such long periods each day that if they are breathing in toxins, it’s incredibly harmful. So we always choose paint and floor finishes that release fewer harmful chemicals into the air and are more environmentally-friendly. By prioritizing these types of materials, our clients can create healthier living and working spaces, leading to improved well-being for occupants.

3. Long-term Savings

While the initial cost of sustainable materials can be higher, they often lead to significant long-term savings due to their energy efficiency and durability. For instance, insulated concrete forms (ICFs) create highly efficient envelope structures. These forms retain heat when warmed and cool when chilled, helping to maintain stable indoor temperatures and reduce the need for excessive heating and cooling, ultimately lowering energy bills over time.

4. Innovation and Performance

Innovative sustainable materials like cross-laminated timber (CLT) are reshaping the future of construction, offering unparalleled performance and environmental benefits. "Cross-laminated timber is incredibly strong and easy to work with," says Jason Sweers, MSS Partner. "Buildings constructed with CLT can be erected quickly, and its carbon-sequestering properties make it a critical component in reducing atmospheric carbon, as the wood naturally stores carbon absorbed from the environment." CLT exemplifies how sustainable materials not only expedite construction but also play a pivotal role in minimizing the carbon footprint of modern buildings.

5. Regulatory Compliance

Sustainable building materials are frequently aligned with certification standards like LEED®, WELL, ENERGY STAR® Multifamily, and Passive House. These programs certify that buildings meet rigorous criteria for energy efficiency and sustainability, which are increasingly being mandated in various regions. Jason highlights the significance of these certifications: “Certification pathways enable us to work towards meeting sustainability targets and promote practices that are environmentally responsible. Adhering to these standards allows builders to comply with regulations while actively promoting environmental stewardship.”

6. Market Demand

The demand for sustainable buildings is on the rise as tenants and buyers prioritize efficiency, health, and environmental friendliness. Buildings that use sustainable materials are becoming more attractive in the real estate market. These buildings, often certified by one of the programs listed above, provide greater comfort, improved air quality, and noise reduction due to elements like better air sealing, high-performance windows, and mechanical systems. As a result, building owners can charge higher lease rates, leading to higher long-term returns on investment. Sustainable buildings not only attract tenants and buyers but also offer superior financial performance.

7. Resilience and Durability

Sustainable materials also often provide superior resilience and durability, making buildings more capable of withstanding environmental stresses. For instance, hempcrete serves as an excellent organic insulation system. It is breathable, reducing mold growth and improving indoor air quality, and it is also resistant to pests and decay, ensuring long-lasting performance. 

An added benefit to a material like hempcrete is its contribution to carbon sequestration, which reduces greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere and therefore can help mitigate climate change. This not only enhances the sustainability of the building material but also increases the long-term value and appeal of buildings by aligning with future green building standards and regulatory incentives.

Bringing Carbon Reduction Strategies Together

When we integrate sustainable strategies and materials, we’re not only constructing better buildings, we’re paving the way for a more sustainable and hopefully healthier future. One of our recent projects, The Bright Building, is a great example of how beneficial this approach can be.

‍

Case Study: The Bright Building

Location: Kitchener, Ontario

The Bright Building emphasizes community-focused sustainability, offering features such as ample bicycle storage, easy access to public transportation, and outdoor communal spaces, all designed to promote low-carbon lifestyles and foster social connection. These amenities create a welcoming environment that encourages residents to embrace sustainable living while building strong community ties.

Inside, the building’s hygge-inspired interior design promotes warmth, comfort, and well-being. Authentic materials like hardwood flooring and ceramic tiles, combined with ample natural daylighting, create an inviting and tranquil atmosphere. Generous outdoor balconies extend the living space, allowing residents to enjoy a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor experiences year-round, enhancing their connection to nature.

Water conservation is also a priority, with low-flow fixtures throughout the building and the use of native plant species in the landscaping, reducing the need for irrigation and contributing to overall sustainability.

At the core of the building’s sustainable construction is its adherence to Ontario Building Code’s stringent Climate Zone 7 requirements, despite its location in Zone 6. This all-electric building features enhanced thermal insulation, significantly lowering heating and cooling demands, while high-performance elements like double-glazed, low-emissivity (low-E) windows minimize heat loss. Additionally, low-VOC paints and finishes improve indoor air quality, ensuring a healthy and energy-efficient environment that sets a high standard for future developments.

Done well, these future-proof buildings serve as educational tools, demonstrating best practices in sustainability, resilience, and innovative design. They should inspire and educate future architects, builders, and the public about the importance of sustainable construction.

‍

Interested in learning more? Contact us to see how sustainable materials can elevate your next project.

‍