As the construction industry pivots towards sustainability, Alternative Building Technologies (ABT) are emerging as a transformative force. These innovative methods and materials are reshaping how civil and building structures are designed, built, and maintained, offering a compelling blend of environmental responsibility, cost-efficiency, and structural integrity.

According to Databuild, a leading services and solutions provider in the commercial construction sector, ABT represents a gradual but significant shift from traditional building practices to more digitally enabled, eco-conscious, and economically viable approaches.

ABT encompasses a range of construction techniques that prioritise sustainability and efficiency. These methods often utilise recycled, renewable, or low-impact materials, and are designed to reduce waste, energy consumption, and long-term operational costs.

Examples of ABT:

• Straw bale construction: A natural and affordable method that uses bales of straw for insulation. Straw is a by-product of grain farming and using it in construction is an effective way to recycle.
• Bamboo cities: A sustainable urban construction method that uses modular bamboo structures that interlock. Bamboo is a renewable resource that is stronger than steel and more resilient than concrete.
• Cob construction: A sustainable natural building technique that uses a mixture of clay, sand, and straw to create structures.
• Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF): A construction technique that uses lightweight and hollow insulation forms to create a wall framework. The structure is then filled with concrete.
• Smart building technology: Technology that integrates systems like heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, security, and access control into a centralised automation platform.

Other notable ABT examples include structural insulated panels and panelised home building systems.

“ABT involves more economic and environmentally friendly materials and ways to construct,” says Morag Evans, CEO of Databuild. “This approach aligns with the modern mindset focused on quicker, easier, and more affordable construction methodologies.”

Driving Forces Behind ABT Adoption

The push towards ABT is not just about innovation, it’s about compliance, cost savings, and occupant well-being. Databuild points to insight on environmentally conscious construction from the South African Housing & Infrastructure Fund (SAHIF):

These include:

•           Reduced maintenance/replacement costs of the life of the building,

•           Energy conservation,

•           Improved occupant health and productivity,

•           Lower costs associated with space reconfiguration,

•           Greater design flexibility.

Evans adds, “The core focus of the construction industry today is on sustainability and the use of recycled materials that meet regulatory standards while supporting the green building movement.”

The construction industry is increasingly guided by frameworks that focus on clean air, natural resources and a non-toxic environment. These strategies are not only shaping project execution but are also under close scrutiny by regulators, making compliance and innovation inseparable.

Databuild continues to champion the adoption of ABT by helping clients connect with key decision-makers, those empowered to drive product implementation and long-term transformation in the built environment.