In a world where environmental concerns are at the forefront of discussion, it is important to re-evaluate our construction and design practices. Traditional methods of using timber in construction come with significant environmental costs.
The measurement of deforestation is 25 million acres per year, which leads to the loss of crucial habitats and biodiversity contributing to climate change and exacerbating environmental degradation. With the demands for timber ever-increasing, Raw Inkk, along with partners at Gen-Eco, recognises the urgency of finding sustainable alternatives, and because of this urgency, we provide revolutionary and sustainable building solutions: printed eco-friendly products.
What is a sustainable building material?
Sustainable building materials go beyond just recycled materials. They're environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable throughout their lifecycle. These materials replace harmful artificial substances with natural, renewable, and carbon-neutral alternatives, which also require less energy to extract.
Our sustainable materials:
1. Plastic board
Plastic boards play a crucial role in reducing plastic waste by utilising recycled materials, such as containers, bags, and packaging. By decreasing the need for new plastic production, they help mitigate the environmental impacts associated with the extraction of raw materials. Additionally, the production of plastic boards requires less energy compared to manufacturing new plastic from raw materials.
Recycled plastic boards are also renowned for their longevity and durability. Their resistance to decay and degradation means they require fewer replacements over time, reducing overall material consumption and minimising waste. Moreover, the versatility of recycled plastic boards allows for a wide range of applications, for interior and exterior wall panels, benchtops and CNC signs.
Furthermore, plastic boards are recyclable at the end of their useful life. This potential for further recycling ensures that materials remain in circulation and out of landfills, creating a closed-loop recycling system and extending the environmental benefits.
2. Balsa beams
Balsa beams are known for their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making them a popular choice in architecture and design. Balsa trees are known for their rapid growth, with some reaching full height in as little as four years. This short growth cycle allows for efficient cultivation and harvesting practices that minimise environmental impact.
Raw Inkk’s supplier, Gen-Eco, carefully cultivates Balsa plantations to support ongoing reforestation efforts while maintaining the high quality of the wood. Sections of the plantation are also left untouched to preserve natural habitats for various animal species, promoting biodiversity conservation.
With our large format printers we can print any timbergrain onto our balsa beams, achieving the appearance of premium hardwoods with the sustainable benefits of balsa.
3. Fibre cement
Fibre cement is a highly sustainable building material, offering significant environmental integrity. Its exceptional durability, lasting up to 50 years, reduces the frequency of replacements or repairs, thereby minimising the use of resources and waste. Compared to materials such as wood, fibre cement's longevity translates to reduced demand for raw materials and lower environmental impact.
In manufacturing, fibre cement is sustainable because of its use of recycled materials and efficient water usage. Fibre cement is primarily made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibres. The cellulose fibres typically come from recycled materials such as paper pulp or wood pulp. This contributes to mitigating strain on natural resources.
4. Acoustic panels
The acoustic panels we utilise for printing are crafted from 100% polyester fibre, with a significant portion – 45-60% – consisting of recycled fibre. In 2020, the manufacturing of acoustic panels saw the raw materials used reduced by 30%, thereby decreasing the product’s embodied carbon footprint.
By prioritising sustainability without compromising on quality, we are not only printing on acoustic panels that excel in performance but also embodying a dedication to a greener, more environmentally conscious future.
Raw Inkk believes in innovation that serves both creativity and sustainability. Our printed eco-friendly products offer a solution that bridges the gap between aesthetics and environmental responsibility. By using UV-curing printing technology, we can replicate the look of the earth’s materials, reducing the need for environmental impact.
