Despite the fact that there could be no built environment without it, concrete is probably not the most interesting topic to read about for 260 odd pages. Seemingly aware of this issue, David Bennett attempts to inject some excitement into the subject, referencing global warming, meteorite showers and volcanic eruptions in the book’s first paragraph.
Whilst initially seeming a little over the top, the tone taken in the introductory pages swiftly demonstrates the underlying message – that using sustainable materials in building construction is vital if global sustainability goals are to be achieved.
Unfortunately for those looking for a charismatic read, this message soon all but disappears. Presenting a range of sustainable concrete options alongside thoroughly researched information on the embodied CO2 of each variant, Bennett rarely references the wider context of construction, despite his initial emphasis. Whilst this leaves more space for technical information – and this book truly is rich in detail – the result is a little dry.
The tone shifts once more in the second part of the book, where 24 case studies are presented as ‘evidence that sustainable concrete architecture is the future’. Again accompanied with thorough information on each building’s energy use, the sleek photography and written analysis of this section feels more like a coffee-table book than what preceded it.
Despite these disparate approach to its subject, the wealth of information in Sustainable Concrete Architecture makes this book a useful purchase for built environment students and professionals.
