BIOGENIC MATERIALS IN MEDITERRANEAN VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE. Building decarbonization with arundo donax

Innovative applications of biogenic materials with a high degree of naturalness are the focus of this paper. The scientific deepening ranges from the use of plant-based materials in vernacular architecture to the new frontiers of industrial research on biocomposite materials. The critical analysis compares the most widely available biogenic building materials in the Mediterranean region, highlighting their environmental and technological advantages and limitations. The biogenic carbon sequestration properties of natural materials such as Arundo donax are investigated through a series of significant experiments—both in structural applications and as “finishing” elements—conducted by research groups involving various universities. These experiments demonstrate the potential and flexibility of this natural material, as well as its contribution to the development of carbon sequestration strategies in the building sector.