Toxic substances can be used at all stages of production of construction and finishing materials, including final products intended for use by consumers. Material containing any toxic elements can damage human health, but also negatively influence various ecosystems and impede recycling and circular management. 

Asbestos and lead-based paint in older homes, VOCs, phthalates, flame retardants in decorative materials and furniture: the list of toxic substances is quite impressive and we will explore all the nuances and rules in our latest posts. 

Tip: stay tuned for our publications and we will help you to choose safe and sustainable building and decorating materials.    

Renovation projects can produce significant amounts of waste, including debris, old fixtures, appliances, furniture and building materials. Improper disposal of renovation waste can contribute to landfill overflow, soil contamination, and air and water pollution.

Construction and demolition waste is the largest waste stream in the EU in terms of mass: more than a third of all EU waste.

And this waste category continues to grow, increasing by 6% between 2010 and 20201. The most recycled materials are concrete and asphalt, which account for 82.2% of the recycled mineral fraction of construction and demolition waste.

Although the construction and demolition industry has great potential to become circular, there are many things that can be done at a personal level to prevent the generation of waste during construction and renovation. 

Tip: While building or renovating your home choose the materials which have the longer life span. For example, choose wood flooring instead of textile ones as it is more durable and helps to prevent waste generation . 

Transporting materials and equipment to renovation sites, as well as using materials, power tools and machinery for construction and renovation, are intensive sources of CO2 emissions that contribute to climate change. 

In 2021, the building and construction sector accounted for around 37% of energy- and process-related CO2 emissions and over 34% of energy demand globally. 

Sure, the entire building sector needs to be decarbonised, but there are still some things you can do at a personal level to help prevent climate change.

Tip: When building or renovating your home, try to use locally sourced materials to reduce the carbon footprint of transport and to help the climate.

Renovations and construction require a plenty of natural or man-made materials. Approximately 30-40% of all natural resources used in industrialized countries are used in the construction sector, and almost 40% of the world's material consumption goes into the built environment. This intensive use of new materials contributes to habitat destruction, biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. 

Tip: Instead of buying new furniture, try to refurbish some old but still nice furniture to avoid excessive use of primary resources. 

Renovation activities may require water for cleaning, mixing materials, and site maintenance. Excessive water consumption can strain local water resources, contribute to water scarcity, and impact aquatic ecosystems through runoff and contamination.

Tip: Research on your own and educate workers who help you with repairs on how to properly dispose of solvents and paints left over from repairs to avoid contaminating water bodies.