eco-efficient architecture
Introduction
Alternative architecture is part of what is known as sustainable architecture, but it focuses mainly on constructions that use non-conventional (alternative) materials and on the creation of new construction techniques and methods from the use of this type of products.
Background
After man discovered agriculture and went from being a nomad to becoming sedentary, the search to create a functional and comfortable habitat began, initially building with materials obtained directly from nature such as: plants, earth, stones, bones and wood. These materials evolved until they reached the industrial era which allowed the creation of new materials and transformed those that already existed, examples of these are: Concrete, glass, steel and plastics.
The concept of sustainable development was not used until the late 1980s when Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland incorporated the term Sustainable Development in the report “Our Common Future” presented at the 42nd session of the United Nations to refer to the need to find a way to meet the needs of the current generation without affecting the future of future generations. But the environmental impact of the industry, production processes and the increase in population on the planet was revealed at the Planet Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, where like no other event it managed to show the world the scientific evidence that demonstrated the seriousness of the issue.
This concept evolved, at the same time that ecological awareness was growing and the search for sustainability affected various sectors, including Architecture, thus emerging sub-branches such as sustainable architecture and from this in turn alternative architecture, which includes sustainability, as well as recycling and the return to the use of basic and natural materials.
Alternative construction materials
Contenido
El avance creciente de la industria y la tecnología permitió crear materiales de construcción con mejores características que los situaron en la categoría de materiales de alto desempeño, como la fibra de carbono, las resinas epóxicas"), etc.; sin embargo, el alto costo tecnológico y económico que implica su elaboración hace que resulten materiales poco sostenibles. Es por ello que se han buscado opciones alternas a este tipo de materiales con la misión de reducir los costos de producción y sobre todo la huella ecológica.