In addition to wood, there are other renewable raw materials that can be used as building materials in different ways. There are a number of renewable alternatives to conventional insulation materials of fossil or mineral origin, particularly when it comes to thermal insulation. Hemp, cork, coconut fiber, seagrass, reed, straw or even wood wool and fibers can be used as insulating materials. All of these renewable materials have specific advantages and disadvantages that need to be carefully examined before use. In general, however, such materials are always carbon carriers whose long-term use removes carbon from the atmospheric cycle and stores it.

In addition to being used as insulation material, renewable raw materials are also used in roof construction. One option that is often associated with the North Sea and Baltic Sea region in this country is the use of reed for roofing. The reeds are processed into the distinctive thatched roofs according to a centuries-old building tradition. In addition to the visual advantages of this type of roof, such roofs offer good insulation. However, the costs as well as the installation and maintenance costs are significantly higher than for conventional roof types.