Ecological Materials and Building Energy Consumption

The focus on ecological building insulation and energy consumption optimization aims to develop and integrate sustainable materials that reduce environmental impact while enhancing energy efficiency in buildings. This field prioritizes eco-friendly insulation solutions such as biodegradable composites, natural fiber materials, and recycled components that can replace conventional, high-energy-demand materials. These alternatives improve thermal insulation, reduce carbon footprints, and extend the lifespan of buildings, leading to significant energy savings and lower emissions. In the building sector, ecological insulation materials support green building practices by utilizing renewable resources, low-carbon alternatives, and recycling strategies that contribute to a circular economy. Life cycle assessments (LCA) are essential to evaluate the environmental impact at each stage, from raw material extraction to disposal, ensuring alignment with sustainability goals. Additionally, energy consumption optimization in insulation manufacturing relies on advanced technologies like AI and nanotechnology to enhance efficiency, precisely control processes, and reduce resource use, making sustainable insulation solutions even more impactful.

The aim of this Research Topic collection is to promote the development and use of biodegradable materials to significantly reduce energy consumption in building construction. By concentrating on the design, physical, thermal and mechanical properties, and the lifecycle of eco-friendly materials, this study seeks to offer sustainable alternatives to traditional construction materials. In doing so, it aims to encourage energy-efficient building practices. Additionally, the topic aims to highlight methods to optimize construction processes, such as the drying and firing of new biodegradable materials, by integrating renewable resources and implementing circular economy strategies that enhance material reuse and recycling. Ultimately, this work strives to support the creation of low-impact, high-efficiency buildings that contribute to environmental sustainability and reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry.

This Research Topic aims to advance the development of low-energy, high-efficiency buildings that enhance environmental sustainability and substantially minimize the carbon footprint of the construction materials industry. The scope of the collection focuses on biodegradable materials to reduce energy consumption in building construction. As such, the topic editors invite authors to submit original research articles, reviews, and case studies that explore experimental, computational, or theoretical approaches covering key areas, including:

• The development, characterization, and lifecycle assessment of eco-friendly materials, such as natural fiber composites and bio-based insulation
• Research on optimizing construction processes, including drying and curing of biodegradable materials, as well as integrating renewable resources
• Contributions on circular economy practices, particularly in material reuse and recycling.

Perspective and opinion pieces addressing future trends, regulatory challenges, and interdisciplinary collaborations in sustainable construction materials are also encouraged.