The First Mars Habitat

The atmosphere of Mars is over 100 times thinner then that of Earth, which leaves the surface of the planet open to wide ranging temperature differences and radiation. This will affect building structures wear and tear as they expand and contract. Anything organic will also be subject to a higher amount of surface radiation, which includes both plant and animal.

Rather then shipping extra shielding from Earth, go underground.

The distance from the sun gives Mars roughly 40% of the sunlight