Building and the construction sector is actually one of the biggest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions, largely due to the type of materials used in the process. In some instances, technology which does produce a lot of pollution to make is worth it due to how much energy it will save in the long run, but in others it is a matter convenience. Sometimes, the more basic materials are actually more effective, cheaper to source and easier to apply than the more advanced alternatives.

If you take clay as an example; it can be used to replace plaster, and as a more effective insulator a lot can be gained in its use. Its widespread use would also see a massive reduction in greenhouse gasses as the materials it could replace produce a lot to make. Using wool instead of glass fibres to insulate wall cavities is another great example of potential benefits, both in terms of cost and in saving the environment.