José Ángel Lorenzo.
General Secretary, Clúster del Granito (Spain)
.Coordinator, Fundación Centro Technological of Grsnite (Spain)
The construction industry has entered an era where sustainability and safety are essential pillars. In this context, granite stands out as a natural, durable and sustainable material, capable of meeting the demands of a market increasingly aware of environmental impact and energy efficiency.
This article explores granite's key role in bio-construction and its suitability to meet rigorous sustainable building standards, such as Passivhaus, as well as its advantages in terms of safety.
Granite and sustainability in construction
Granite, formed by the solidification of magma, has been widely used in architecture and construction throughout the ages. Its relevance today lies in its sustainable and ecological performance. Unlike materials such as concrete or ceramics, granite has a significantly lower carbon footprint. According to the sector's Environmental Product Declarations (EPD), its carbon footprint is at least four times lower than that of other conventional materials.
In addition, granite is fully recyclable, making it an ideal resource for the circular economy. At the end of its useful life cycle, the material can be reused or recycled without losing its physical and mechanical properties, a key benefit for sustainable construction, which seeks to reduce both environmental impact and the consumption of new resources.
Innovation and improvements in production
In recent years, the granite sector has incorporated cleaner and more efficient technologies, reducing its carbon footprint by up to 81%. Innovations such as diamond wire cutting machines and the use of renewable energies in the production process have been essential to achieve these advances in sustainability.
Many companies in the sector have also improved their environmental certifications, enabling them to compete in markets where sustainability is a requirement.
The adoption of eco-labels and adherence to international standards, such as those promoted by the Green Building Council, reinforce the position of granite as a renewable and non-toxic material, ideal for green building projects.
Granite in bio-construction and the Passivhaus standard
Bio-construction, which prioritises the use of natural materials and the minimisation of environmental impact, finds granite an ideal resource. This material is not only sustainable, but also has excellent physical properties that promote energy efficiency. As a thermal regulator, granite helps to maintain stable indoor temperatures, reducing the need for heating and cooling, an attribute particularly useful for complying with the Passivhaus standard, which focuses on reducing energy demand and thermal insulation. The use of granite in facades and floors can significantly improve the energy performance of buildings, helping them to meet the stringent requirements of this standard.
In addition, granite adapts aesthetically to a variety of environments, both urban and rural, and its colour versatility makes it an attractive option for bio-construction projects that value sustainability without sacrificing aesthetics.
Safety: a resistant and fire-resistant material
A key feature of granite is its excellent fire performance. Classified in category A1 according to the Euroclasses, granite is non-combustible and fire-resistant, which means that it does not contribute to the spread of fire or emit toxic fumes. This is particularly relevant at a time when fire safety is a priority in the construction of public buildings and private residences.
According to data from the Association of Insulating Mineral Wool Manufacturers (AFELMA), in Spain around 20,000 fires occur annually in homes, and the use of fireproof materials such as granite can reduce these risks. Its A1 classification makes it one of the safest options for façades and flooring in projects where fire safety is essential.
Granite and energy efficiency
In addition to its fire resistance, granite has other properties that contribute to the energy efficiency of buildings. Its high density makes it an excellent thermal insulator, helping to maintain stable indoor temperatures and thus reducing the need for heating and cooling.
This energy efficiency is essential in projects that seek to comply with standards such as the Passivhaus standard, which requires minimum energy consumption. Thanks to its natural properties, granite can play a crucial role in reducing the energy demand of buildings.
Cost-benefit: a smart investment
Granite also offers an excellent cost-benefit ratio. Although the initial investment may be higher than materials such as concrete or ceramics, its low maintenance cost and long service life make it an economically advantageous option in the long term.
Its resistance to weathering, chemicals and abrasion ensures that granite structures last for decades without major repairs, maximising performance throughout the building's life cycle.
Conclusion: a material for the future of construction
Granite meets the requirements of sustainability, safety and energy efficiency demanded by modern construction, as well as offering a durable and aesthetically versatile solution. In a world increasingly committed to green and safe construction, granite is positioned as an essential material for building a greener and safer future.
Its ability to meet standards such as Passivhaus and its suitability for bio-construction make it an indispensable choice for architects, engineers and builders interested in reducing environmental impact and creating safe, efficient and long-lasting buildings.
In short, granite is a historical resource that, thanks to its qualities, is projected as a key material for the construction of the future.
