In the Commercial Real Estate industry, the importance of a building’s construction and sustainability is at an all-time high. These factors play a crucial role in deciding its long-term value, operational efficiency, and environmental impact. Here are a few stories that display innovative architecture and engineering from around the world to create more environmentally friendly structures.
Creating Stronger Concrete with Coffee
Spent Coffee Grounds (SCG) are currently filling landfills worldwide, producing copious amounts of carbon dioxide and methane. Australian scientists have found a way to repurpose SCG by creating concrete that is 30% stronger than what is standard. This would also reduce the need to source the natural sand and aggregate that usually goes into concrete.
The Earthquake-Resistant Building Inspired by Spider Webs
A Japanese architect has found a solution to earthquake-related building failures using a seismic reinforcement technique inspired by the strength of spider webs. The carbon fiber material used for this building has the strength of iron, but is 90% lighter. Spun into rods, this material was used to reinforce the inside and outside of the building, its windows, and the staircases. These rods could be the key to the safety of older buildings during earthquakes.
Eco-Friendly Bricks Made from Used Clothes
In France, an architect is transforming textile waste into functional bricks. Each brick uses about 2 to 3 t-shirts worth of material and can be utilized as furniture, decorations, or insulation. As the company continues to expand and improve, they are looking for ways to create load-bearing bricks with this material as well.
