On Using Local Materials

Using materials from local or regional sources is high on the list of many green designers and builders. Several high-profile projects, such as the new laboratory designed for Montana State University, have made it a priority to source materials from within a limited radius of the site, and many small-scale owner-builders do likewise. Using local materials has the obvious benefit of reducing the significant environmental impacts of transporting materials long distances. In the eyes of many, it has some less tangible benefits as well, such as encouraging vernacular building styles, supporting the local economy, and connecting users directly with the impacts of their choices.

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