The increasing global warming we are facing, along with a greater awareness of the population has made opting for green building an increasingly present reality.

The construction and rehabilitation of works to transform them into sustainable ones is in greater demand in Galicia. Currently, it is easier to find options throughout the community and there are several grants from the Xunta to promote this path towards energy efficiency.

What is an ecological construction?

An ecological construction, regardless of its purpose, is one that is built using sustainable techniques and materials. In addition, sustainable architecture is characterized by being environmentally friendly in all its phases, from transportation and selection of materials to the delivery of the project.

This type of building is characterized by causing the minimum impact on the environment, reducing the carbon footprint and promoting the conservation of a natural space.

What characterizes an ecological construction?

The ecological building works are based on the application of the principles of bioclimatic architecture and the use of renewable energies to improve energy efficiency.

In addition, the use of sustainable and local materials have a priority of use. It is common to use FSC certified wood, recycled fiber for insulation and VOC-free paints.

In addition, these types of buildings implement water collection and reuse systems as well as water saving devices for better water management.

Finally, ecological buildings are characterized by incorporating green areas and open spaces. This promotes biodiversity and, of course, is a factor that helps air quality.

The advantages of an ecological construction

Ecological constructions offer a series of advantages for the environment and surroundings in which they are located, as well as for the tenants who occupy them.

Reduced enviromental impact

The characteristics of this type of construction have a positive effect on the conservation of the nature that surrounds us. Opting for sustainable and recycled materials, as well as insulation and ventilation systems, reduce energy consumption and gas emissions.

Achieve greater energy savings

The principles of bioclimatic architecture influence, and help, in saving electricity in our home.

Good thermal insulation avoids energy loss during the winter and its gain in summer. This has a direct impact on the use of heating and air conditioning, which becomes almost unnecessary and, therefore, electricity consumption decreases, affecting our bills.

Improved quality of life

An ecological construction directly affects our quality of life. When the insulation, both thermal and sound, is well designed, as in the case of these houses, the quality of life of those who live in them increases.

In addition, avoiding the use of VOC materials and paints significantly improves our health, since the air we breathe inside is clean. However, avoiding volatile chemicals will not only help us in our breathing, but will also prevent us from feeling fatigued, irritations and allergic reactions.

Get a durable home

The characteristics of ecological buildings make them a much more durable option.

On the one hand, the use of high quality materials such as high performance glass or concentrated wood, allows the building to be much more durable.

On the other hand, the designs of sustainable architecture are based on the fundamentals of durability that seek to create solid works and avoid problems such as moisture. Within this aspect also takes into account the construction or rehabilitation of the facade that is prepared to withstand the various external factors such as climate.

An investment for your future

It is true that the initial costs of an ecological construction can be higher by 3% to 8% compared to a traditional construction. However, thanks to the energy savings offered by this type of housing, this investment is recovered within 5 to 10 years.

In addition, buildings designed to maintain optimal atmospheric conditions for living achieve energy savings of 70% to 90% compared to traditional housing. A decrease in electricity use means, in turn, a significant decrease in our bills, which will allow us to reduce costs.

What is the future of ecological construction in Galicia?

The growing climate change and climate awareness have caused that, when it comes to having a home, we seek to connect with nature in a sustainable way. Therefore, ecological houses are an increasingly popular option throughout Galicia that recovers, in many cases, the ancient tradition of using wood in the structures.

In addition, the Galician institutions provide various grants and funding for the rehabilitation of spaces and the construction of sustainable housing. In this way, it is more feasible for owners to finance their sustainable projects.

In short, ecological construction in Galicia is no longer the future but the present. Awareness of climate change has led more and more people to look for homes that offer greater comfort while contributing to an environmentally friendly lifestyle.