Biotechnology in Construction Materials: From Bio- cement to Eco-friendly Bricks

Abstract

The construction sector is a major contributor to global greenhouse-gas emissions and material consumption, driven largely by Portland cement production and fired masonry. Biotechnology offers disruptive pathways to decarbonize materials by enabling low-carbon binders (bio-cements), microbial induced calcite precipitation (MICP) for crack healing, and biologically stabilized “eco-bricks” produced from low-value residues. This paper synthesizes scientific advances, compares environmental performance, proposes process and deployment frameworks, and identifies technical and policy gaps. Using published LCA ranges and techno-economic reasoning, we show that bio-based approaches can reduce embodied carbon substantially (illustrative reductions of 40–70% vs conventional materials) when integrated with waste feedstocks, renewable energy, and standards for circular end-of-life. We conclude with recommended R&D priorities and policy instruments to accelerate safe, scalable adoption.