Building Biology is an international movement of individuals who are concerned with the environmental factors of the built environment that affect human health, This group is known as the International Institute for Bau-Biology™ and Ecology (IBE).
Bau-Biologie™ is the holistic study of the man-made environment, human health and ecology. The intrinsic aspec of IBE is to hold Nature as the golden principle. Bau-Biologie, or Building Biology, is not a narrowly specialized subject, but is a living subject that brings together fields of study that are otherwise only taught in isolation. Bau-Biologie was founded in Germany by a group of professionals from a variety of diciplines concerned about the inability of post-war housing to support health and ecology. IBE was started in North America in 1987, with a mission to raise awareness that buildings can abide by the laws of nature.
The German term “Bau-Biologie” means “building biology” or “building for life.” Building Ecology can be defined as the relationship between the building and the environment
The underlying principle is one of “balance.” All materials that come from the natural environment make up the “living structure” and will promote health. When these materials are returned to the natural environment they will cause no harm. Problems occur for people and the environment when synthetic materials and manmade pollutants are introduced
IBE is in support of “Green Programs” as they promote the removal of all pollutants from the built environment. The IBE Principle sets a new vision of going beyond green by going beyond the standard material, methods and construction practices. The IBE Principle vision integrates ecology and biology with allied health practices. The engineering and energy conservation techniques are combined wiht the economics of each of these decisions resulting in a sustainability which is healthier for the occupant and the planet.
The IBE mission brings together design methods and technology to provide the information needed to create helathy homes and workplaces. This knowledge will raise awareness, provide tools for solutions, and promote effective ecological practices for our future generations.
