Finalyear

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The utilization of sustainable building materials is an increasingly significant aspect of eco-friendly construction. With the pressing need to address environmental concerns, it is vital to understand what makes these materials different and why their use is essential.
This article aims to explore the importance and benefits of sustainable building materials in promoting environmentally conscious construction practices. It seeks to inspire architects, builders and individuals interested in sustainable construction.
Hence, sustainable constructing, and operating buildings in an environmentally responsible and resource-efficient manner. It minimizes the negative impact on the environment throughout a building’s lifecycle, from its design and construction phases to its operation and eventual demolition.
One key aspect of sustainable construction is the use of environmentally friendly building materials. These materials are sourced and processed in a way that reduces their carbon footprint and minimizes waste generation. Example of these sustainable building materials include recycled steel, reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork, straw bales, rammed earth, and natural insulation materials like sheep’s wool or cellulose fiber.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, sustainable building materials also contribute to improved energy efficiency within buildings. One approach to environmentally-conscious construction involves the use of materials that have a reduced impact on natural resources and contribute to long-term ecological balance (Hussin, 2023).
According to Catherine (2023), utilizing eco-friendly materials is an effective way to minimize our environmental impact and promote sustainability by making conscious choices that prioritize the health of our planet and contribute to a greener future.
When it comes to our environmental impact, one of the key areas to focus on is the materials we use. Eco-friendly materials also known as environmentally friendly materials are designed and produced to minimize harm to the environment. By adopting eco-friendly materials, we can make a significant difference in reducing our ecological footprint.
Environmentally friendly materials are characterized by their ability to conserve resources, reduce pollution and promote sustainability.
Embracing environmentally friendly materials offers a range of advantages. These materials are often made from renewable resources, requiring less energy and water during production. They also emit fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants compared to conventional materials.
Since they are often source from renewable materials, they prioritize the efficient use of resources, promote resource conservation through efficient manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and recycling initiatives, thereby supporting a circular economy.
These materials also posses energy saving properties. For example, energy efficient insulation materials help reduces heat transfer, minimizing the need for heating and cooling. In addition, environmentally friendly materials are often free from harmful substances like volatile organic compounds and formaldehyde. Using such materials in construction, furniture, and home décor can lead to improved indoor air quality and a healthier their living environment.
Environmentally friendly materials reduce environmental impact, as we face pressing environmental challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and pollution, embracing materials that minimize our ecological footprint is crucial. As they are designed to prioritize the efficient use of natural resources, reducing the demand for virgin resources. By conserving resources, eco-friendly materials help preserve biodiversity, protect ecosystem, and mitigate the depletion of precious natural resources.
Another way eco-friendly materials reduce environmental impact is through energy efficiency.
The adoption of environmentally friendly materials also derives sustainable design and innovation. These materials inspire architects, engineers, and product designers to create innovative solutions that prioritize resource efficiency. They encourage the development of energy efficient buildings, sustainable infrastructure, and environmentally friendly product.
It is essential to choose environmental friendly materials. It helps preserve the environment and contributes to a reduced carbon footprint. Additionally, eco-friendly materials promote healthier living and working environments by being free from harmful substances.

1.2 Statement of the Problem
The use of environmental unfriendly materials on building construction is a major environmental problem that significantly needs attention (Ottawa, 2017). The effects and consequences of using environmentally unfriendly materials have posed the challenges for development of alternative materials that are friendly to the environment in the building construction industry. Despite these challenges, some contractors in the study area are unaware of the environmental friendly materials. Some stakeholders in the construction industry are not well educated in the impacts of environmental friendly materials in the study area. Many buildings are dilapidated immediately after construction as a result of not using environmentally friendly materials which leads excessive higher cost of maintenance in the client and building occupants.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study
1.3.1 Aim of the Study
The aim of this study is to evaluate the needs for environmentally friendly material for building construction in the industry in view of identifying the characteristics and properties of these materials to be used in building construction sites.