North America Biotic Concrete Market By Form (Intrinsic, Capsule-based, Vascular), By Application (Residential Construction, Commercial Construction, Industrial Construction), By Country, By Competition, Forecast and Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

The North America Biotic Concrete Market was valued at USD 24.11 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 47.38 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 11.92% during the forecast period. Biotic concrete, also known as bio-receptive concrete, is a type of environmentally responsive construction material engineered to support the growth of living organisms such as moss, algae, and lichens on its surface.

Unlike traditional concrete, which is typically inert and impermeable, biotic concrete is designed with porosity, surface roughness, and nutrient-infusion properties that facilitate biological colonization. In North America, the market for biotic concrete is gaining momentum as urban planners, architects, and civil engineers increasingly prioritize sustainability, ecological restoration, and climate resilience in construction practices. The material’s unique ability to self-heal through microbial-induced calcite precipitation and its role in reducing urban heat islands are significant drivers of its adoption in metropolitan infrastructure.

Biotic concrete supports green building certifications such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design by improving air quality, enhancing stormwater management, and contributing to energy efficiency. The regional growth is further propelled by stringent governmental policies focused on carbon reduction, nature-based solutions, and biodiversity enhancement, especially in large cities undergoing green transformation initiatives. Biotic concrete is being incorporated into building façades, retaining walls, bridges, and noise barriers to provide both functional strength and ecological benefit. Academic and corporate research partnerships in the United States and Canada are also accelerating innovation in biotic concrete formulations, making them more cost-effective and adaptable to various climates.

The growing public and private investment in resilient urban infrastructure—amid climate concerns and resource scarcity—is pushing developers to adopt materials that combine durability with environmental performance. The increasing number of pilot projects and commercial installations using biotic concrete across North American cities like New York, Vancouver, and Los Angeles demonstrates a clear shift toward integrating living materials into the built environment. This convergence of ecological awareness, regulatory support, and technical innovation is expected to steadily drive the biotic concrete market in North America, with an anticipated increase in urban biodiversity initiatives that may lead to over 20% market growth annually by volume over the next five years.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Emphasis on Sustainable Urban Infrastructure Development

The increasing demand for sustainable urban infrastructure in North America is significantly driving the adoption of biotic concrete across residential, commercial, and public infrastructure projects. As urban populations grow and cities face escalating environmental challenges such as air pollution, stormwater runoff, and the urban heat island effect, municipal authorities, real estate developers, and urban planners are prioritizing green infrastructure solutions that support long-term ecological balance. Biotic concrete, which fosters the growth of moss, algae, and lichen through its porous and nutrient-rich composition, aligns closely with these sustainability objectives by actively enhancing biodiversity and contributing to carbon dioxide absorption. This material’s capacity to serve both structural and ecological functions—by reinforcing building exteriors while supporting micro-ecosystems—makes it increasingly appealing to city governments pursuing climate-adaptive strategies.

In major urban centers such as New York City, Toronto, and San Francisco, city planning departments are now mandating or incentivizing green construction practices as part of local building codes, directly encouraging the use of environmentally integrative materials such as biotic concrete. The emphasis on achieving net-zero emissions and the integration of nature-based solutions into urban design has led to a surge in pilot projects and long-term developments incorporating biotic concrete into façades, walkways, retaining walls, and sound barriers. Institutions such as universities, museums, and innovation hubs are also adopting this material to showcase leadership in sustainable construction. Federal and state-level grants and policy frameworks promoting biodiversity and green urban design continue to bolster the commercial appeal of biotic concrete.

As part of its Green Infrastructure Initiative, the City of Toronto recently introduced a new green standard that encourages the use of vegetation-supporting building materials in new developments, indirectly fostering demand for biotic concrete. The trend is reinforced by increasing public awareness about sustainable living and growing interest from construction stakeholders in materials that offer both environmental and economic return on investment. According to municipal building permit data from the City of Toronto’s Urban Design Department, green infrastructure components—including vegetation-compatible concrete—were integrated into over 140 approved projects in 2023, reflecting a year-over-year increase of approximately 38 percent.

Technological Advancements and Innovation in Construction Materials

Technological advancements in the development and application of biotic concrete are significantly driving market growth in North America. As research institutions, universities, and material science companies continue to invest in the innovation of biotic concrete formulations, the material’s capabilities are being enhanced, making it more cost-effective, durable, and adaptable for various construction needs. Advanced techniques in material engineering have resulted in improved formulations of biotic concrete, including increased resistance to weathering, greater bio-sustainability, and better performance under diverse environmental conditions. These technological innovations have made biotic concrete not only more viable for commercial use but also more competitive with traditional construction materials in terms of cost and functionality.

For example, new additives and treatments have been developed to optimize the growth of beneficial microorganisms and plants while improving the material's overall structural integrity. Advanced manufacturing methods such as 3D printing are being explored to create customized biotic concrete structures that better integrate with architectural and environmental design needs. As a result, more contractors and developers are willing to integrate biotic concrete into their projects, encouraged by its evolving performance benefits and reduced costs over time.

Biotic concrete's self-healing capabilities—where microorganisms naturally repair cracks and imperfections—are also a product of these technological advancements, offering the promise of lower maintenance costs and longer-lasting infrastructure. These innovations are also bolstered by collaboration between public and private sector entities focused on sustainable building materials. For example, a partnership between the University of California Berkeley and several construction firms in 2022 resulted in a breakthrough in biotic concrete’s ability to support high-density vegetation in harsher climates. As such, the market for biotic concrete in North America is expected to grow by over 15% annually, driven in part by ongoing technological developments in material science.

Public and Private Investment in Climate Resilient Infrastructure

The growing investment in climate-resilient infrastructure in North America is a key factor fueling the adoption of biotic concrete. As climate change accelerates, cities and regions across North America are prioritizing infrastructure projects that can withstand extreme weather events, including floods, heatwaves, and severe storms. Biotic concrete offers a promising solution by enhancing the durability of structures while simultaneously providing environmental benefits. For instance, the material’s ability to regulate temperature by supporting plant life helps mitigate the urban heat island effect, making buildings cooler and reducing energy consumption.

Biotic concrete’s ability to absorb and manage rainwater helps prevent flooding, a concern that is becoming increasingly important as heavy rainfall events grow more frequent due to climate change. The biotic concrete market is benefitting from both public and private sector investment in this area. Governments at various levels are allocating funding to upgrade existing infrastructure and build new, more resilient systems that incorporate sustainable materials like biotic concrete. Private investors and developers are also seeking climate-resilient solutions to future-proof their portfolios, with an increasing number of commercial buildings opting for biotic concrete to meet rising demands for sustainability and resilience. A notable example of this is the recent green infrastructure initiative launched by the City of Miami, which encourages developers to incorporate nature-based solutions, including biotic concrete, into building projects.

Private real estate developers in cities like Vancouver and Chicago are integrating biotic concrete into mixed-use developments and high-rise buildings, recognizing the long-term environmental and financial benefits. With over USD 20 billion in public and private investment allocated to climate-resilient infrastructure projects across North America in 2023 alone, the adoption of biotic concrete is projected to increase significantly as these funding initiatives continue to expand.

Growing Consumer Demand for Green and Eco-Friendly Buildings

The rise in consumer demand for green and eco-friendly buildings is another crucial factor driving the North America biotic concrete market. As environmental awareness grows, both residential and commercial property buyers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their purchasing decisions. This shift in consumer behavior has led to a surge in demand for buildings that incorporate environmentally friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and nature-based design elements. Biotic concrete fits perfectly into this trend, as it not only contributes to energy efficiency but also provides aesthetic and environmental benefits by promoting plant growth and supporting local biodiversity. Developers and property owners are responding to this consumer demand by integrating biotic concrete into building designs, particularly in high-end residential properties, commercial office spaces, and green-certified buildings.

The emphasis on wellness and biophilic design in the built environment is influencing consumer preferences, with many opting for spaces that feature natural elements. Biotic concrete’s role in enhancing indoor and outdoor air quality, reducing noise pollution, and improving the aesthetic value of buildings makes it a highly desirable material in today’s market. As part of this consumer-driven demand, more real estate companies are seeking to market their properties as environmentally responsible, using biotic concrete as a selling point for eco-conscious buyers. In response, the adoption of biotic concrete in both new and retrofit construction projects has surged by 22% over the past year in key North American markets, as reported in sales data from sustainable construction suppliers.

Download Free Sample Report

Key Market Challenges

High Initial Cost of Implementation

One of the primary challenges facing the North America biotic concrete market is the relatively high initial cost of implementing this innovative material in construction projects. While biotic concrete offers significant long-term benefits, including energy efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced environmental impact, its upfront costs are typically higher than those of traditional concrete. The expense stems from several factors, including the specialized manufacturing process, the development of bio-receptive additives, and the need for advanced infrastructure for plant growth support. For many developers, especially those working with tight budgets or focusing on cost-effective construction, these higher initial costs may act as a barrier to widespread adoption.

The installation of biotic concrete may require additional expertise and specialized labor, further increasing overall project expenses. While government incentives and green building certifications may help offset some of these costs, the price premium associated with biotic concrete remains a significant challenge, particularly in competitive construction markets where cost-efficiency is paramount. For instance, projects that are not eligible for specific green infrastructure grants may find it difficult to justify the extra expense to investors and stakeholders. In the short term, this high cost is preventing smaller firms and developers from fully embracing biotic concrete, limiting its adoption to larger, more well-funded projects that can afford to integrate such environmentally sustainable materials. To overcome this challenge, further advancements in biotic concrete technology are needed to drive down production costs, making it more accessible for a wider range of projects. As the demand for biotic concrete increases and economies of scale take effect, it is expected that prices will gradually decrease, but in the current landscape, this initial cost barrier remains a primary hurdle for mass adoption.

Technical and Performance Uncertainty in Diverse Climates

Another significant challenge facing the biotic concrete market in North America is the uncertainty regarding its performance in diverse climatic conditions. While biotic concrete has demonstrated success in temperate climates, its performance in regions with extreme weather conditions—such as freezing winters, intense heat waves, and high humidity—remains a subject of ongoing research and debate. Biotic concrete’s ability to support plant growth and withstand environmental stressors such as temperature fluctuations, heavy rainfall, or prolonged droughts varies depending on the region. In colder climates, for instance, the plants embedded in the concrete may struggle to survive during the winter months, raising concerns about the long-term viability of biotic concrete in these areas. Similarly, regions with extremely high temperatures and little rainfall may see reduced growth or failure of plant life, which would undermine the material's intended ecological benefits.

While biotic concrete’s self-healing properties—enabled by microbial activity—can help repair minor cracks and damage, its resilience under extreme weather conditions is still being evaluated. There is a need for more comprehensive studies and case studies in various geographic locations to better understand how biotic concrete behaves in different environments. Developers and construction professionals are hesitant to adopt biotic concrete in areas where the material's performance could be compromised, as this would lead to higher maintenance costs and potential failures. As the technology matures, more regional-specific solutions may emerge, but the current uncertainty surrounding the material’s performance in diverse climates poses a challenge for broader market penetration. For the biotic concrete market to thrive, there needs to be greater standardization and testing to ensure its reliability across different weather conditions, allowing it to be adopted more widely throughout North America.

Limited Awareness and Knowledge Among Stakeholders

A third major challenge faced by the North America biotic concrete market is the limited awareness and knowledge about the material among key stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and developers. Despite the growing interest in sustainable construction, many construction professionals are still unfamiliar with the specific advantages and applications of biotic concrete. As a relatively new technology, biotic concrete has not yet been fully integrated into mainstream construction practices, and its benefits may not be fully understood by all parties involved in the design and construction process. Many developers remain hesitant to adopt this material due to a lack of knowledge about its long-term durability, potential maintenance requirements, and compatibility with other building materials.

The technical aspects of biotic concrete, such as the necessary conditions for supporting plant life, the appropriate types of microorganisms for self-healing, and the specific installation techniques, are not widely taught in construction and architecture curricula. Without proper education and training, professionals in the field may find it difficult to assess whether biotic concrete is the right choice for a given project, leading to delays, resistance to adoption, or a preference for more traditional, well-understood materials.

Building codes and construction standards have yet to fully incorporate biotic concrete, making it more difficult for developers to navigate regulatory requirements when using the material. While awareness is gradually increasing through pilot projects, conferences, and research publications, it is clear that further efforts are needed to educate stakeholders on the value and potential of biotic concrete. The development of industry training programs, better access to case studies, and closer collaboration between material scientists and construction professionals will be essential to overcoming this knowledge gap and driving greater adoption of biotic concrete in the market.

Key Market Trends

Growing Adoption of Biophilic Design in Urban Developments

A prominent trend in the North America biotic concrete market is the growing adoption of biophilic design principles in urban developments. Biophilic design, which focuses on integrating natural elements into the built environment, has gained significant traction in recent years due to increasing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable living spaces. Biotic concrete, which supports plant life and promotes biodiversity, is seen as an ideal material for biophilic design, offering both ecological and aesthetic benefits. As urban areas face rising environmental concerns, including pollution and the urban heat island effect, architects and urban planners are turning to biotic concrete to create green, living walls, facades, and even outdoor spaces.

This trend is further supported by the increasing emphasis on wellness and environmental sustainability in architecture, with developers keen to offer eco-conscious and innovative solutions to attract environmentally aware consumers. In cities like Vancouver, New York, and Los Angeles, biotic concrete is being incorporated into new residential and commercial buildings to create spaces that connect people with nature while reducing the environmental impact of urbanization. As the trend for biophilic design continues to grow, the use of biotic concrete is expected to expand, with more developers and architects exploring its potential to enhance building aesthetics, improve air quality, and support biodiversity in urban landscapes. This trend is reinforced by the increasing awareness of the psychological and health benefits of nature in urban environments, which is driving demand for green building materials such as biotic concrete.

Advancements in Biotic Concrete for Climate Resilience

Another significant trend shaping the North America biotic concrete market is the advancement of biotic concrete technology to enhance climate resilience. As climate change accelerates, North American cities are facing increasingly severe weather events, including floods, heatwaves, and storms. Biotic concrete has emerged as a key material in the development of climate-resilient infrastructure due to its ability to mitigate the effects of extreme weather. The material’s porous structure supports plant growth, which helps reduce heat absorption in urban areas, thus addressing the urban heat island effect. Biotic concrete’s ability to manage rainwater runoff by promoting water infiltration makes it a valuable tool in flood prevention strategies. As governments and developers prioritize climate adaptation and resilience in infrastructure projects, biotic concrete is being integrated into green roofs, stormwater management systems, and climate-responsive building facades.

For example, the City of Chicago has incorporated biotic concrete into various public works projects as part of its strategy to enhance resilience to flooding and extreme temperatures. With the growing urgency to develop infrastructure that can withstand climate-related challenges, the demand for biotic concrete is expected to increase, particularly in regions that experience frequent flooding, high temperatures, or other climate-related threats. As technological advancements continue to improve the performance and affordability of biotic concrete, its adoption for climate-resilient infrastructure is poised to grow, offering a sustainable solution to some of the most pressing environmental challenges faced by urban centers.

Expansion of Biotic Concrete in Retrofitting and Renovation Projects

The North America biotic concrete market is also experiencing a growing trend in the use of biotic concrete in retrofitting and renovation projects. As the demand for sustainable building solutions expands, there is a growing focus on retrofitting existing buildings to improve their energy efficiency and environmental performance. Biotic concrete is gaining popularity in these retrofit applications due to its ability to enhance the energy efficiency of building exteriors and improve air quality. The material’s ability to support plant life contributes to better insulation, reducing the need for artificial cooling and heating systems. Furthermore, biotic concrete can be used to retrofit aging buildings by installing green facades and other eco-friendly elements, thus improving the building’s sustainability without the need for complete demolition or reconstruction.

This trend is particularly relevant in urban centers with aging infrastructure, where retrofitting offers a more cost-effective and sustainable alternative to new construction. In cities like Boston and Montreal, building owners are increasingly turning to biotic concrete to enhance the environmental performance of their properties, reduce their carbon footprint, and meet modern sustainability standards. As the trend for retrofitting buildings with sustainable materials continues, biotic concrete will play an increasingly important role in transforming the existing building stock into more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly structures. This shift is expected to further expand the biotic concrete market as developers and property owners seek innovative ways to meet sustainability goals while minimizing the environmental impact of their buildings.

Segmental Insights

Form Insights

Intrinsic segment dominated in the North America Biotic Concrete Market in 2024 and maintain its leadership throughout the forecast period. This segment benefits from its ability to integrate biotic elements directly within the concrete mix, allowing for the natural growth of plants and microorganisms without the need for external capsules or vascular systems. The intrinsic form of biotic concrete is highly favored due to its seamless integration into the concrete structure, offering enhanced sustainability and durability. It supports self-healing properties and promotes biodiversity, making it an ideal solution for urban environments striving to reduce the urban heat island effect and improve air quality.

The intrinsic form of biotic concrete requires less maintenance compared to capsule-based or vascular alternatives, further contributing to its widespread adoption. As sustainability becomes a more significant focus for the construction industry, with growing regulatory pressure and environmental awareness, the demand for intrinsic biotic concrete is expected to continue growing. Developers are increasingly opting for this form due to its cost-effectiveness and long-term environmental benefits. Moreover, the intrinsic approach allows for easy scalability and is more suitable for large-scale projects, which is a crucial factor driving its dominance. With its ability to support a wide variety of plant species, enhance the aesthetic value of buildings, and improve the resilience of structures to extreme weather conditions, the intrinsic biotic concrete segment is well-positioned to lead the market in the coming years. The trend toward urban sustainability and eco-friendly construction practices will further cement the intrinsic biotic concrete segment’s leadership throughout the forecast period.

Download Free Sample Report

Country Insights

Largest Country

In 2024, the United States dominated the North America Biotic Concrete Market and is expected to maintain its leadership throughout the forecast period. The U.S. has been at the forefront of adopting sustainable construction practices, driven by a combination of environmental awareness, government regulations, and a growing demand for eco-friendly building materials. The country’s strong focus on green building certifications, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and the Living Building Challenge, has significantly fueled the demand for biotic concrete. Furthermore, urban areas across the United States, particularly those dealing with environmental challenges like urban heat islands, pollution, and water management issues, are increasingly turning to biotic concrete as a solution to improve urban resilience and promote sustainability.

The U.S. government’s support for green infrastructure initiatives, alongside the expansion of eco-conscious urban planning, has provided a solid foundation for the widespread use of biotic concrete. Cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago have already integrated biotic concrete into their infrastructure projects, contributing to its continued growth. With a robust construction industry, increasing environmental regulations, and a growing interest in biophilic design, the United States is poised to remain the dominant market for biotic concrete in North America throughout the forecast period.

Emerging Country

Canada is emerging as a key player in the North America Biotic Concrete Market, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly construction solutions. The country has shown a strong commitment to environmental conservation, with a growing focus on green building practices and reducing carbon footprints. Canadian cities, such as Vancouver and Toronto, are leading the way by incorporating biotic concrete into their infrastructure projects to enhance energy efficiency, improve air quality, and promote biodiversity.

Canada’s emphasis on sustainable development, backed by government policies and incentives for green building technologies, has created a favorable environment for biotic concrete adoption. The demand for biotic concrete in retrofitting existing buildings and urban landscaping is gaining momentum, positioning Canada as a key market with substantial growth potential in the coming years. This trend is expected to continue as sustainability becomes an increasing priority.

Recent Developments

• In December 2024, Aecon, CarbiCrete, and Lafarge Canada celebrated the completion of a low-carbon building at Aecon's Innovation and Training Centre in Ontario. The structure, built using CarbiCrete's cement-free concrete and Lafarge's ECOpact® low-carbon concrete, serves as a tool storage facility. This collaboration highlights the companies' commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions in the construction industry.
• In September 2024, Holcim invested in Sublime Systems, a low-carbon cement technology startup, to enhance its decarbonization efforts. The partnership will support Sublime’s first manufacturing facility in Massachusetts and increase the production of Sublime Cement™. Holcim and Sublime Systems aim to scale up and commercialize this innovative technology, further advancing Holcim's strategy to decarbonize construction.
• In February 2024, Giatec won two awards at the World of Concrete’s Innovative Product Awards. SmartMix received the People’s Choice Award for Concrete Production & Delivery, while SmartRock Pro won the Expert’s Choice Award for Sustainable Innovation. These accolades highlight Giatec's advancements in AI-driven mix management and concrete strength monitoring, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and industry innovation.

Key Market Players

• CarbonCure Technologies Inc.
• Carbicrete Inc.
• Lafarge Canada Inc.
• Fortera Corporation
• Alterbiota Inc.
• Giatec Scientific Inc.
• Eco Material Technologies, Inc.
• Sublime Systems Inc.

Report Scope:

In this report, the North America Biotic Concrete Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• North America Biotic Concrete Market, By Form:

o   Intrinsic

o   Capsule-based

o   Vascular    

• North America Biotic Concrete Market, By Application:

o   Residential Construction

o   Commercial Construction

o   Industrial Construction   

• North America Biotic Concrete Market, By Country:

o   United States

o   Canada

o   Mexico

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the North America Biotic Concrete Market.

Available Customizations:

North America Biotic Concrete Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

North America Biotic Concrete Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]