Sustainable bio-based concrete: material innovations, durability challenges and life cycle perspectives

Purpose This review presents a critical evaluation of bio-based and bio-enabled cementitious systems as solutions for lowering resource use and climate change impact without compromising performance. This study aims to review their components based on the processing of the components, their interaction with the matrix, the mechanical properties, durability performance and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Design/methodology/approach This research uses a structured narrative review methodology based on peer-reviewed sources from the Scopus database, which includes peer-reviewed English-language literature from the years 2005 to 2025. Data were categorized in terms of material type, manufacturing process, density and test age, mechanical and durability performance and LCA functional unit, system boundary, biogenic carbon handling, energy and water metrics. Findings What emerges is an inherent performance-functional property balance, rather than a universally superior material per se. Low-density materials made from hemp, straw, wood and cork possess excellent insulating capabilities, yet generally do not have structural properties. Surface-treated fibers, biochar and Microbial-Induced Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) improve crack prevention, transport resistance and self-healing after cracking; however, some environmental gains might be compromised due to the use of increased chemicals and additional energy requirements. Results obtained in the process of comparative LCA are very much dependent on the choice of the functional unit, system boundaries, considered lifetime, allocation and biogenic carbon assumptions. Originality/value This review integrates a taxonomy-based approach linking feedstock choice and processing approaches to performance, durability and environmental impacts. Evidence tables of three themes include processing of constituents, mechanical properties and durability data and LCA studies. Moreover, there is a cross-theme research agenda highlighting the processes involved in design, standardization and scaling up.