Alternative Building Materials for a Sustainable Built Environment: A Literature Review

The Industrial Revolution altered how people worked, the technologies at their disposal, and, in many cases, where they lived. It made life easier for many people; however, it must be considered that more needs and wants would result in unending changes in our built environment. Several building typologies have been derived to address the people’s demands. At the same time, the construction methods have changed significantly, and the materials used in construction sourced from our natural resources have remained the same for centuries. While research has constantly shown us the construction industry’s impact on the environment, people have remained adamant until they have felt the effects of climate change. The review of Alternative Building Materials (ABM) aims to demonstrate why the building industry must consider this substitute to protect the environment and humanity. The study investigated the various ABMs, their characteristics, acceptability, and the importance of exploring these possibilities on a small scale of the built environment but on a scale where it can have the most significant impact.