The Sustainability of Jesmonite: Why It’s the Future of Eco-Friendly Construction
As the construction industry increasingly shifts towards sustainable practices, Jesmonite stands out as a revolutionary material that checks all the right boxes. Its eco-friendly composition, versatility, and alignment with green building standards make it a game-changer for architects, designers, and contractors. At FTC Pro, we’ve worked extensively with Jesmonite and witnessed firsthand how it meets the growing demand for sustainable solutions in the construction industry.
What Makes Jesmonite Sustainable?
Jesmonite’s sustainability is rooted in its composition and life cycle. As a water-based composite material made from gypsum and recycled glass resin, Jesmonite offers a greener alternative to traditional materials like concrete, fiberglass, and polyester resin.
Low Carbon Footprint
Compared to cement-based materials, Jesmonite has a significantly lower carbon footprint. The production of Jesmonite involves fewer energy-intensive processes and uses renewable gypsum sources, reducing overall emissions.
Non-Toxic and Zero Solvents
Jesmonite is a non-toxic material with low volatile organic compounds and zero solvents, making it safer for both creators and the environment. This quality makes it particularly attractive for indoor use and aligns with stringent air quality standards in green construction.
Recyclability
Unlike many synthetic materials, Jesmonite is recyclable. Scraps from Jesmonite projects can often be repurposed into new designs, minimizing waste and promoting a circular economy within the construction industry.
Compatibility with Green Building Certifications
Jesmonite’s properties align with green building certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Its eco-friendly characteristics can contribute to earning points in categories like indoor environmental quality, materials and resources, and innovation in design.
Jesmonite in Action: Sustainable Case Studies
Project Light, Canada Water - London
Project Light, Canada Water is a multi-phased dockside regeneration scheme in Southwark. It is a joint venture between Notting Hill Housing and Sellar Design & Development. The site is adjacent to Canada Water underground station and the dock, between London Bridge and Canary Wharf. It includes 150,000 sq ft of retail and commercial space, including a cinema, bars, restaurants, office space and a 100,000sqft Decathlon store.
Sustainable Impact:
Reduced energy consumption during transportation and installation due to its lightweight nature.
Panels were manufactured using Jesmonite, minimizing the project’s carbon footprint.
The material’s zero solvents, supports LEED certification goals.
Caesarea Palace – Middle East
Jesmonite AC730 proved to be the ideal material solution for all of the decorative architectural elements on this magnificent private palace. This included Corinthian columns, pilasters, cornices, friezes, balusters, window & door surrounds and other highly ornate features.
Jesmonite provided a bespoke colour match to the exacting requirements of both client and architect.
This has resulted in what may be considered to be the most refined and detailed work ever done in Jesmonite as is plainly demonstrated by these stunning project images.
“Jesmonite, when combined with our artistic and manufacturing skills, is the ideal material for delivering high definition, fine detail and the highest quality architectural mouldings.”
Sustainable Impact:
The use of Jesmonite eliminated the need for quarrying natural stone, preserving natural habitats.
Measured batch quantities in the manufacturing process, ensuring zero waste.
The water-based composition reduced the environmental impact of the production process.
Saga Cruises Spirit of Discovery
The Spirit of Discovery is a luxury cruise ship, catering for nearly 1,000 guests, and central to the vessel’s luxurious interior is a huge piece of artwork made out of Jesmonite.
Sustainable Impact:
Replaced traditional materials like marble and hardwood, reducing deforestation and resource extraction.
Lightweight properties simplified transport and installation, cutting emissions.
Non-toxic finishes essential for interior decorations on a cruise ship, contributing to a healthier indoor environment for guests.
Jesmonite and the U.S. Construction Industry
Growing Demand for Sustainable Materials
In the U.S., the construction industry is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable materials and practices. Regulations such as California’s Title 24 and initiatives like the WELL Building Standard are pushing architects and builders to prioritize eco-friendly choices. Jesmonite’s unique combination of durability, aesthetics, and sustainability makes it a perfect fit for these evolving standards.
Advantages Over Traditional Materials
Concrete: Jesmonite is lighter, less carbon-intensive, and easier to work with, making it a superior alternative for decorative and structural applications.
Natural Stone: No need to quarry, work, transport and install heavy stone, reducing costs as well as environmental impact..
Resin Enhanced cements: Unlike other products, Jesmonite is using a balance of ingredients that means it ticks all the boxes when it comes to sustainable building.
Conscientious Raw Materials: Jesmonite materials are from sustainable and ethical sources.
Accreditation and Standards
Jesmonite complies with several international environmental standards, ensuring it meets the rigorous demands of U.S. projects:
LEED Compliance: Contributes to multiple LEED categories, including materials and resources and indoor air quality.
BREEAM Accreditation: Recognized for its environmental performance and sustainability.
How Jesmonite Supports Sustainable Practices
Durability and Longevity
Jesmonite’s durability ensures a long lifecycle, reducing the need for frequent replacements and repairs. Its weather resistance makes it particularly suitable for outdoor applications, where it withstands extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and moisture without degrading.
Versatility and Waste Reduction
Jesmonite’s adaptability allows designers and builders to achieve high-end finishes with minimal material use. By enabling precise applications and reducing waste during production, Jesmonite supports sustainable resource management.
Local Sourcing and Production
FTC Pro is a stockist of Jesmonite meaning you can source Jesmonite materials locally, further reducing transportation emissions. This approach aligns with the broader goal of promoting localized supply chains within the U.S. construction industry.
Enhanced Indoor Air Quality
In addition to using no solvents, Jesmonite’s non-toxic properties make it an excellent choice for interiors. It contributes to healthier living and working environments, aligning with standards like WELL building.
Practical Tips for Sustainable Use of Jesmonite
If you’re considering Jesmonite for your next project, here’s how you can maximize its sustainability benefits:
Opt for Local Suppliers: Reduce emissions by sourcing Jesmonite from local distributors like FTC Pro.
Minimize Waste: Plan your project carefully to optimize material usage and recycle leftover material where possible.
Choose the Right Product: Select Jesmonite AC730 for durable outdoor applications to ensure longevity.
Seal for Protection: Use environmentally friendly sealants to enhance Jesmonite’s durability and reduce maintenance needs.
Incorporate Pigments Thoughtfully: Use non-toxic, sustainable pigments to achieve custom finishes without compromising environmental integrity.
As our construction industry continues to prioritize sustainability, Jesmonite offers a compelling solution that combines eco-friendliness with unmatched versatility. Its ability to replace resource-intensive materials without compromising performance or aesthetics makes it a frontrunner in sustainable design.
At FTC Pro, we’re proud to provide Jesmonite products and support clients in achieving their sustainability goals.
Whether you’re designing a LEED-certified building, creating public art, or crafting custom interiors, Jesmonite empowers you to build a greener future.
Contact FTC Pro today to learn more about Jesmonite, request samples, or discuss your next sustainable project.