Van Reenen, Coralie APadayachi, Yerdashin R2026-07-272026-07-272026-072366-25572366-2565https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-27698-8_37http://hdl.handle.net/10204/14863This research paper explores the net zero carbon potential offered by bio-based building materials in South Africa, specifically, mass timber and two bio-based concretes, hempcrete and nonCrete. As the construction industry grapples with the urgent need to reduce its carbon footprint, bio-based materials offer a promising path toward sustainability. Hempcrete, known for its excellent insulation properties and carbon sequestration capabilities; nonCrete, making use of alien invasive species, thereby restoring natural systems; and mass timber, lauded for its strength and renewability, are analysed for their environmental benefits and practicality in modern construction. The study examines the cradle to gate carbon emissions of these materials, as well as fitness for purpose. Findings suggest that bio-based materials not only contribute to significant carbon savings during their production and usage phases but also enhance building performance. The study methodology compares the embodied carbon of a comparable section of wall of each material. Calculations are based on data available in embodied carbon databases, case studies and environmental product declarations. The paper finds that despite limited standardised data, the selected materials have net negative embodied carbon and concludes with recommendations for integrating these materials into mainstream construction practices to drive the industry towards a more sustainable future.FulltextenBio-based concreteEmbodied carbonMass timberArticlen/a