Clay bricks regarded as some of the most sustainable façade products
When architects are asked for the most and least sustainable façade materials/ products, three materials are mentioned as the most sustainable: clay bricks, wood and stone. It should be noted that architects hardly ever question the sustainability of bricks. Especially in countries like Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Belgium, these products are strongly related to a sustainability image.
Not the same, however, can be said about wood: in France, the Netherlands and Belgium, architects seem to have opposing opinions. Wood is referred to as the most as well as the least sustainable material. The same can be said about concrete, in France.
In general, concrete and façade panels (composite or HPL) often find their place among the least sustainable materials and products.