Five Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint in the Home with Sustainable Materials

by Peter March 30, 2020

written by Peter March 30, 2020

Five Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint in the Home

Carbon Sequestration: A Novel Approach to Climate Mitigation

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide (CO2), a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. While traditional methods of carbon sequestration, such as pumping CO2 underground, are expensive and untested, new technologies are emerging that make it possible to sequester carbon in building materials.

Low-Carbon Cement: A Sustainable Alternative

Cement production is a major source of CO2 emissions. However, sustainable cement makers like Solidia Technologies have developed low-carbon cements that reduce emissions by up to 70%. These cements trap CO2 during the curing process, permanently storing it in the concrete matrix.

Mineral Carbonation: Turning Power Plant Exhaust into Building Blocks

Mineral carbonation is a process that converts CO2 from power plant exhaust into solid materials like bricks and pavers. This process mimics natural geological processes that have reduced CO2 levels in the atmosphere over millions of years. The University of Newcastle in Australia is partnering with industry leaders to pioneer this technology, with plans to scale up to commercial production.

Olivine: A Green Mineral with Carbon-Capturing Properties

Olivine is a naturally occurring mineral that reacts with CO2 to form silicon dioxide and magnesite, rendering the greenhouse gas chemically inert. This mineral can be used in roofing systems, paving materials, and even soil amendments to capture and store CO2. Multinational companies like Derbigum have developed roofing systems that bind with CO2 when exposed to rain, capturing significant amounts of the greenhouse gas over the lifetime of the roof.

Bamboo: A Sustainable and Carbon-Sequestering Building Material

Bamboo is a rapidly growing, renewable resource that sequesters more carbon per acre per year than most other wood products. It is also durable and versatile, making it ideal for a variety of building applications, including flooring, paneling, and furniture. However, it is important to ensure that bamboo is sustainably produced and harvested.

AirCarbon: Biodegradable Plastic from Waste Methane

Much of the plastic used in our homes is produced from fossil fuels. However, Newlight Technologies has developed AirCarbon, a biodegradable plastic made from waste methane, a greenhouse gas that is 20 times more heat-trapping than CO2. This innovative material has the potential to replace oil-based plastics in a wide range of products, including cell phone cases, plastic bags, and furniture.

Incorporating Green Materials into Your Home

By choosing sustainable and carbon-sequestering materials for your home, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to climate change mitigation. Here are some tips to get started:

Use low-carbon cement for your next construction or renovation project.
Consider mineral carbonation bricks or pavers for your driveway or patio.
Install an olivine roofing system to capture CO2 from the air.
Opt for bamboo flooring, furniture, or other building components.
Use AirCarbon-based products to replace conventional plastics.

By making small changes in the materials we use in our homes, we can make a big difference in the fight against climate change.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.