Finding the right green building products

Green building products are not just about the materials, but about the way you use them to create an environment that doesn’t require excessive heating or cooling. It’s also about the way you dispose of - and use - waste.

These days, being an environmentally sustainable business is a must - not only because it is attractive to potential clients, but because it is socially responsible.

You may also find that, as well as saving the planet, you’re saving on your energy and water bills. It all adds up.

Use recycled green products where you can

Every year, hundreds of tonnes of household and business waste go to landfill. Much of it is toxic, with the potential to harm the environment over the long term. Plenty more of it could be effectively re-used. Why not take some of that material out of the waste stream by sourcing recycled green building products?

“All concrete and bricks should have a recycled component if possible, as should plaster,” says Chris Edwards, Business Development Manager with Ecotec Building Group.

Greeb timber tips

Make sure you use sustainable timber. All timber walls, roofing and ceiling framing should be sourced from suitable plantation timbers.

“Roofing materials should be durable and lightweight, to reduce framing requirements, and should be light in colour,” Chris says.

Dark colours absorb heat, which makes the building less resistant to hot weather. Any material that can prevent or delay the use of air-conditioning is ‘green’ in this context.

Avoid toxic materials

Ensure any sealants used on tiles are non-toxic and compatible with potable rainwater collection from your rooftop. All paints and sealants should be low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

“Use non-ozone-depleting and low-VOC materials for both thermal and acoustic insulation,” says Chris.

“These materials should come from a natural, renewable source, have a recycled content and have no negative health impacts.”

Save energy, water … and the earth

When you fit out your premises:

• Consider using compact fluorescent lights or LEDs to save on your lighting bill. Sensors will further minimise running costs.
• Make sure you meet all the standards and restrictions with water-saving, dual-flush toilets and shower fittings.
• Use natural materials where possible, including recyclable nylon carpet, natural stone tiling, bamboo flooring or certified sustainable timber.

Passive is actively green

You can achieve passive heating and cooling by:

• double glazing windows for increased thermal performance
• maximising insulation for walls and ceilings.

“Passively designed buildings take advantage of natural energy flows, airflows and daylight to give an acceptable internal environment for as much of the year as possible,” says Chris.

“This approach typically allows for very low energy consumption and pleasant living conditions.”

It’s worth talking to a building specialist about ways in which you can incorporate green building products into your workplace design and fitout, and create a sustainable environment for your business.