Sustainibility: A Series

“Green building is not about buildings – it is about people” – Sandy Wiggins

Using both natural and recycled materials is a practical approach towards being more eco-friendly, but, as designers at AW, there are still many things we must be mindful of when considering how sustainable these materials are. We must ensure any natural materials are not being harvested in mass, to avoid deforestation. As well as being aware of the manufacturing process of recycled materials, considering what type of and how much energy is used. We should always take into account how locally a material is sourced, as a reduced distance for the transportation, the smaller the carbon footprint. On top of this, what finish we apply to a natural material can greatly impact levels of VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions and suitability for recycling or biodegrading. The best solution here is to use water-based sealers or naturally based finishes wherever possible, and look out for products with low/zero VOCs.

With the passing of time, our society as a whole is more aware than ever of our negative effect on the environment, and the increasing need for change. As designers at AW, we are mindful of the coming and going of design styles, but the sustainability movement feels like much more than a passing trend. This brief introduction into how our choice of materials as designers can have a significant impact on the world around us, is a topic we endeavour to explore further. Like many moments of transformation, it comes with the need to embrace what is new or different; something we look forward to discovering more about and sharing with you in the near future.