The first constructions on this planet were simple, fragile shelters made from natural resources with the purpose of protecting against weather and predators. What started as innocent protection has now evolved into multiple story buildings with elaborate designs and myriad purposes. Buildings have become dominant in all continents and they serve as a constant reminder of our history as their lifetime can span over centuries. The rate of construction is growing exponentially in the modern age with over 230 billion square meters already dedicated to space for buildings.

The concerns we have nowadays about buildings are two-fold: construction and living.
The majority of materials sourced and utilized for mass construction in urban areas is manufactured by burning fossil fuels. The greenhouse gases emitted through the production of steel, iron, steel, copper, aluminium, cement, plastic and silicone are some of the most detrimental to our environment. Another aspect we must take into consideration is land manipulation. This refers to the clearing of vegetation in order to expand cities, diverging rivers or forcing waters into artificial pathways. In addition, the construction industry produces extreme quantities of construction waste which often ends up inadequately disposed of in landfills.

The other negative side to buildings has to do with how we utilize these shelters inside, once they have been constructed. The ongoing need for electricity, heating spaces, water and cooking is a constant generator of emissions. Similarly, the chemicals used for cooling and refrigeration can escape as emissions too.