Sustainability

Clay brick is integral to the sustainable development of communities, having been used as the building material of choice since our ancestors. The long life span and durability of clay bricks ensures that clay brick homes last for generations, while also instilling a sense of place, worth, comfort and security in the lives of people.

A “Life Cycle Assessment” of clay brick walling in South Africa was undertaken by The Clay Brick Association of South Africa representing brick makers who participated and contributed to the development of the 3 year study. The analysis was conducted in accordance with the ISO 14040 (Environmental management) and 14044 standards with an external basis for environmental declarations and carbon footprint of products.

The Study

This study will benefit the construction industry by allowing architects to calculate the lifetime environmental impact of the use of a clay brick in a building, compared to other construction materials.