Aug 29

7 Bricks with Sustainable Properties that will Help Achieve Climate Targets

D-bricks displayed on the 2050 Materials Platform

In an era where sustainability is not just a trend but a necessity, the construction industry is making strides to minimize its environmental impact. One significant area of innovation is in brick manufacturing, where companies are developing more sustainable alternatives to traditional bricks. This article dives into the most innovative and sustainable brick products available today, highlighting their unique features, sustainability performance, advantages, and specific use cases.

1. Forterra’s Ecostock Bricks

Forterra’s Ecostock range, the UK's most sustainable stock brick

Product Overview

Forterra’s Ecostock range is touted as one of the most sustainable stock brick in the UK. These bricks are designed using the latest technology in sustainability and production efficiency, offering low embodied energy while maintaining high standards in color consistency and dimensional accuracy.

Sustainability Performance

Ecostock bricks feature an embodied carbon of just 171 kgCO2e per tonne, making them a standout in low-carbon construction. They are also responsibly sourced under the BES 6001 certification, ensuring sustainable material usage.

Advantages and Use Cases

The versatility of Ecostock bricks makes them suitable for eco-conscious residential housing, large-scale commercial buildings, and public sector projects focused on minimizing environmental impact.

Discover Ecostock on the 2050 Materials Platform.

2. Ibstock Brick Limited’s Ecoterre

Ecoterre unfired clay bricks by Ibstock for internal applications

Product Overview

Ecoterre by Ibstock is a range of unfired clay bricks designed for non-load bearing internal applications. These bricks are lauded for their low energy input, minimal waste, and high recyclability.

Sustainability Performance

The unfired nature of Ecoterre bricks significantly reduces energy consumption during production, contributing to their low environmental impact. They also help regulate indoor humidity, improving air quality within buildings.

Advantages and Use Cases

These recyclable bricks are perfect for use in interior walls, particularly in sustainable residential and commercial buildings where indoor air quality and material recyclability are key considerations.

Discover Ecoterre on the 2050 Materials Platform.

3. Biomason’s bioLITH Tiles

BioLITH Tiles showcased on the 2050 Materials Platform

Product Overview

Biomason’s bioLITH is a thin masonry tile that is 100% recyclable and adheres to the Living Building Challenge Criteria, making it a standout product in sustainable construction.

Sustainability Performance

Produced in North Carolina, bioLITH tiles are recyclable and free from harmful chemicals listed on the LBC Red List, making them a safer choice for both the environment and human health.

Advantages and Use Cases

Their thin design makes them ideal for both residential and commercial buildings that prioritize sustainability, particularly in projects aiming for stringent green building certifications.

Discover bioLITH on the 2050 Materials Platform.

4. Kenoteq’s k-Briq

k-Briq by Kenoteq made from 90% construction waste

Product Overview

The k-Briq by Kenoteq is an innovative brick made from 90% construction waste. It is designed to generate less than a tenth of the carbon emissions of a standard brick, making it one of the most eco-friendly options available.

Sustainability Performance

k-Briq supports a circular economy by utilizing recycled materials and reducing waste significantly. With its ongoing certification process, k-Briq promises to be a game-changer in reducing the carbon footprint of buildings.

Advantages and Use Cases

k-Briq is well-suited for sustainable urban development projects and commercial buildings where environmental credentials are paramount.

Discover k-Briq on the 2050 Materials Platform.

5. FRONT’s WasteBasedBrick

FRONT’s WasteBasedBricks made from at least 60% waste material

Product Overview

FRONT’s WasteBasedBricks are made from at least 60% waste material, showcasing an innovative approach to recycling in the construction industry.

Sustainability Performance

Fired using ‘forest compensated gas,’ these bricks have a lower embodied carbon compared to traditional bricks, making them a sustainable choice for sustainable projects.

Advantages and Use Cases

WasteBasedBricks are ideal for urban construction projects where the reduction of carbon emissions is a priority. Their innovative use of waste materials also makes them suitable for modern and sustainable architecture projects.

Discover WasteBasedBricks on the 2050 Materials Platform.

6. Petersen Tegl’s D-bricks

D-bricks with distinctive appearance for high-end residential and commercial projects

Product Overview

Petersen Tegl’s D-bricks, available in various models such as D33, D37, D71, and D70, are coal-fired bricks that offer a unique aesthetic and high durability, making them a popular choice in architectural projects.

Sustainability Performance

These bricks are manufactured in Denmark and adhere to the ISO 50001 standard, which ensures energy management and efficiency in production. While coal-fired, Petersen Tegl is committed to minimizing environmental impact through efficient processes.

Advantages and Use Cases

D-bricks are known for their distinctive appearance, making them ideal for high-end residential and commercial projects that prioritize both aesthetics and durability. Their robust nature also ensures long-lasting performance in various climatic conditions.

Discover D-bricks on the 2050 Materials Platform.

7. Michelmersh’s Lindfield Yellow Multi

Lindfield Yellow Multi brick by Michelmersh with variations including Anthracite and Danehill Yellow

Product Overview

Lindfield Yellow Multi is a popular brick option from Michelmersh, available in several variations, including Anthracite and Danehill Yellow. These bricks are known for their high quality and distinctive coloring, often used in traditional and modern architecture.

Sustainability Performance

These bricks are produced in the UK and meet both ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 standards, ensuring environmental management and energy efficiency during production. Michelmersh’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in their responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices.

Advantages and Use Cases

Lindfield Yellow Multi bricks are versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, from residential homes to commercial buildings. Their aesthetic appeal and compliance with high sustainability standards make them an excellent choice for projects aiming for both visual impact and environmental responsibility.

Discover Lindfield Yellow Multi on the 2050 Materials Platform.

Conclusion: A New Era of Sustainable Bricks

As the construction industry continues to evolve, the adoption of sustainable materials such as these innovative bricks is crucial. Each product mentioned above not only meets the functional requirements of traditional bricks but also offers significant environmental benefits, from reducing embodied carbon to enhancing recyclability. By choosing these sustainable options, builders and architects can contribute to a greener future while maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of their projects.

With these bricks paving the way, the future of construction looks not only strong but also sustainable.

Explore the full range of bricks on 2050 Materials here.

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