Natura Mater is a Brussels-based company which specialises in training profesionals in the use of sustainable contruction materials.

They run workshops. For instance, Overview, Methodology & Trends is an introduction to sustainable material use. It covers theory and practice, and explores the concepts of building sustainability, circularity and environmental impact.

Space Plan & Stuff focuses on low-impact solutions for interior walls, flooring systems, interior finishings and furniture.

Regulatory Framework, Labels & Tools will help professionals get to grips with current and future EU legislation governing the construction sector, sustainability labels, and sustainability tool such as Level(s).

They also organise 4-day group sessions four times a year, enabling professionals to build up their knowledge.

The other strand of Natura Mater's activity is the Materials Forum. They identify materials which are in tune with their philosophy:

• build with few materials and reuse existing ones,
• choose materials made with low-impact, regenerative components, such as bio-based parts and raw earth,
• if neither of these is possible, ensure that conventional materials use as few resources as possible by means of upcycling and circular industrial flows.

Their website has a range of suitable materials on display in their Materatek, such as reconditioned materials, insulation from board residue, recycled corks or straw and building studs made from recycled paper. For each material, there is an analysis of the properties and carbon footprint.