The energy used in building materials plays a big role in making eco-friendly choices in architecture. Here are some important points to think about:

1. What is Embodied Energy?
   Embodied energy is the total energy needed to get a material, make it, and bring it to where it will be built.

2. Some Facts to Know:

   • Concrete uses about 1.7 million BTUs for each ton.
   • Steel is even more, needing between 20 million and 30 million BTUs for each ton.
   • Choosing materials with low embodied energy can lower a building's energy use by up to 30%.

3. Picking Materials:
   When designing for sustainability, it's smart to choose materials that don’t require a lot of energy.

   • For example, bamboo has only about 10% of the embodied energy that steel does.
   • Recycled materials can save a lot of energy, cutting it down by 40-90%.

4. How It Affects Design:
   Using materials that have lower embodied energy helps reduce harmful emissions and makes buildings more sustainable for the future.