The use of low-carbon construction materials is becoming an essential requirement in European projects. According to the European Commission, through the Level(s) initiative, sustainability indicators are promoted that require the life-cycle assessment of materials. In 2025, all projects financed through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) will have to justify the environmental impact of the chosen solutions.

In Romania, the Ministry of Development announced in 2024 a set of recommendations for the use of recyclable and biodegradable materials in public buildings. These include FSC-certified wood, water-based paints and plant-fiber boards. According to Eurostat, only 12% of new constructions in Romania use sustainable materials, compared to the EU average of 27%.

Demand for such solutions is increasing, driven by ESG standards and the green criteria applied in public procurement. In the medium term, the adoption of these materials will become mandatory in public projects and economically advantageous in private ones.

(Photo: Freepik)