Biogenic Materials: Buildings Grown, Not Built

The construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation as sustainability becomes a primary focus. 

One of the most promising advancements in this space is the rise of biogenic materials—building materials derived from living organisms. 

These materials offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional construction materials like concrete, steel, and plastics, which contribute heavily to carbon emissions and resource depletion.

Biogenic materials have the potential to reduce carbon footprints, enhance energy efficiency, and even promote regenerative building practices. 

Below, we explore three key biogenic materials leading this revolution: mass timber, cyanobacteria-based bio-concrete, and hempcrete.

1. Mass Timber Construction: The Rise of Wooden Cities

Mass timber, particularly cross-laminated timber (CLT), is at the forefront of biogenic construction materials. 

CLT consists of multiple layers of wood glued together at alternating angles, creating a strong and durable material comparable to steel and concrete but with a fraction of the environmental impact.

Unlike steel and concrete, which require energy-intensive production processes and emit large amounts of carbon dioxide, CLT stores carbon within the material for its entire lifecycle. Additionally, CLT buildings can be prefabricated offsite, reducing construction waste and labor costs.

One of the most ambitious CLT projects is Stockholm Wood City, a massive urban development in Sweden that aims to be the largest city district built entirely from timber. 

The project will not only significantly reduce reliance on concrete and steel but also promote better air quality and sustainable urban living.

2. Cyanobacteria-Based Bio-Concrete: A Carbon-Negative Alternative

Traditional concrete production is one of the largest contributors to global CO₂ emissions, accounting for nearly 8% of worldwide carbon output. 

To address this issue, researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute are developing an innovative bio-concrete that harnesses cyanobacteria to create building materials that actively absorb and store carbon dioxide.

This technology works by growing cyanobacteria in a nutrient solution. These bacteria biomineralize sand and other aggregates, forming rock-like structures in a process that does not emit carbon dioxide but instead sequesters it. 

This breakthrough represents a paradigm shift in sustainable construction, where building materials no longer contribute to climate change but actively counteract it.

3. Hempcrete: A Carbon-Sequestering, Healthy Building Material

Hempcrete is another promising biogenic material making waves in sustainable construction. 

Made from hemp hurds (the woody core of the hemp plant) and a lime-based binder, hempcrete is lightweight, breathable, and provides excellent thermal insulation.

Unlike traditional concrete, which releases carbon during production, hempcrete actively absorbs CO₂ from the atmosphere as it cures, making it a carbon-negative material. Additionally, hemp is a rapidly renewable resource that grows quickly with minimal water and pesticide requirements, making it an ideal material for eco-conscious builders.

Beyond its environmental benefits, hempcrete also promotes healthier indoor air quality. 

The material is highly breathable, resists mold growth, and contains no toxic chemicals, making it ideal for residential and commercial applications. Studies also suggest that the long-term economic benefits of hempcrete include lower energy costs due to its superior insulation properties.

The Future of Biogenic Construction

The adoption of biogenic materials presents a huge opportunity for architects, engineers, and builders to rethink the way structures are designed and constructed. 

As regulations push for lower carbon footprints and more sustainable building practices, materials like mass timber, cyanobacteria-based bio-concrete, and hempcrete will become more mainstream.

However, challenges remain. Scaling production, standardizing regulations, and optimizing performance are critical hurdles that must be addressed before biogenic materials can replace traditional options at a large scale. 

Despite these challenges, investment in biogenic innovation is growing, and governments and private companies alike are beginning to support research and development in this field.