The Key to Sustainable Natural Stone Use
In an era where sustainability is a driving force behind construction practices, the importance of using verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for natural stone has never been more critical. As the demand for eco-friendly building materials grows, natural stone emerges as a superior choice, boasting a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to man-made alternatives such as precast stone and clay bricks.
Natural stone's environmental advantages stem from its minimal processing requirements and long lifespan. Unlike precast stone and other synthetic materials, which require energy-intensive manufacturing processes, natural stone is extracted with far less environmental impact. This reduced processing translates to a lower carbon footprint, making natural stone an ideal option for projects aiming to meet stringent sustainability standards.
However, the true environmental benefits of natural stone can only be fully realised by using the correct EPD for the specific type of stone and the exact manufacturer. EPDs provide a transparent, verified account of a product’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. But not all EPDs are created equal. The environmental performance of different types of natural stone and manufacturers can vary significantly, and factors such as the energy consumption, extraction process, transportation, and finishing techniques employed by individual manufacturers can influence the overall carbon footprint.
Sourcing local materials is another critical factor in reducing carbon impact. The carbon emissions associated with importing stone from distant locations can be substantial, largely due to transportation. By choosing locally sourced natural stone, builders can significantly reduce the environmental impact of their projects. Local stone not only supports regional economies but also ensures that the stone is well-suited to the local climate and aesthetic. Moreover, considering the historical use of stone at the project location is essential, as it provides valuable insight into the material’s durability and performance in that specific climate. This approach further enhances the sustainability and long-term success of the build.
For architects, builders, and developers committed to sustainable construction, relying on a verified EPD tailored to the exact stone type and manufacturer, combined with the practice of sourcing local materials, is essential. This ensures that the stone used in any project truly delivers on its environmental promises and supports the broader goal of reducing the construction industry’s carbon emissions.
As the construction industry continues to grapple with the challenge of reducing its carbon footprint, natural stone, backed by verified EPDs and locally sourced materials, stands out as a responsible and sustainable choice. By prioritising natural stone over man-made alternatives and using the correct EPD, the industry can take a significant step towards a more sustainable future.
Albion Stone, a fourth generation family business pride ourselves on having a helpful and skilled workforce as well as modern and traditional manufacturing process to enable us to produce the highest quality Portland Stone with minimal environmental impact.
