Urban Energy Technical Note 11: Building Materials

Building materials play a very important role in the adaptation of buildings to the local climate. The capacity to insulate, transmit and store heat, as well as the natural regulation of indoor temperature and humidity in buildings are all determined by the materials used.

The choice of materials is also crucial in terms of the environmental impact, economic affordability and socio-cultural sustainability of the building. The use of appropriate building materials can reduce by 40% the environmental footprint of construction, it can provide more affordable shelter, create a healthier indoor environment, strengthen local culture by promoting traditional materials and promote the local economy through to the boost of local materials industry