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As the global focus on sustainability increases, the construction industry is under mounting pressure to adopt green practices. That’s because it is among the most resource-intensive industries. The UN Environment Programme states that the construction sector contributes 37% of global emissions. That makes it the biggest emitter of greenhouse gases.
Not surprisingly, more and more construction companies are keen to adopt green building techniques. Besides addressing environmental concerns, green construction offers financial and reputational benefits. However, first-timers may not know exactly what they should do to join the bandwagon.
This article explains how construction companies can embrace the green building trend.
Choose Sustainable Building Sites
The foundation of green construction begins with sustainable building sites. The US Environmental Protection Agency highlights the relationship between location and green building. For example, an accessible site reduces carbon footprint by reducing transportation emissions during and after the project.
When selecting sites, builders must prioritize locations that minimize environmental disruption. They can opt for previously developed or urban sites instead of untouched natural areas. Another factor to consider is the preservation of existing vegetation, water bodies, and natural landforms to maintain ecological balance.
Careful site selection can help companies to reduce environmental degradation and promote the sustainability of their projects.
Create Green Designs
While site selection is critical, green building actually starts with thoughtful design. Architects and engineers must integrate sustainability into their blueprints. The Whole Building Design Guide defines a true green home as one that acknowledges the significance of all building elements. These include an air-tight wall system, high-quality windows, and more.
Builders can adopt passive design strategies to maximize natural light and ventilation to reduce reliance on artificial lighting and HVAC systems. Building orientation can be done strategically to optimize energy use. For example, windows can be placed for maximum solar gain in winter and shading in summer.
Opt for Green Building Materials
The materials used in construction also impact a building’s carbon footprint. Materials like recycled steel, reclaimed wood, or crushed concrete reduce waste. Similarly, materials that produce minimal carbon emissions during production, such as bamboo or hempcrete, support sustainability. The construction sector also has some innovative options like self-healing concrete or mycelium-based materials.
Besides choosing the right materials, they must avoid the wrong ones. For example, PFAS is one of the culprits to avoid. According to PFAS Central, PFAS has many desirable functions, such as corrosion prevention, lubrication, weatherproofing, and grease and water resistance. These materials are used in roofing, sealants, caulks, adhesives, and paints and coatings.
Despite these uses, PFAS can pose dangers to construction workers and residents. These are the same materials found in AFFF-based firefighting foam and proven to cause cancer. In the AFFF lawsuit, navy personnel and firefighters are seeking compensation for the damage caused by PFAS in the firefighting foam.
According to TruLaw, more than 10,000 of these lawsuits have been consolidated in multidistrict litigation in the District of South Carolina. The first bellwether trials for individual injury claims are scheduled for 2025.
Prioritize Energy-Efficiency
Energy efficiency is another element of green construction. To achieve this, builders can adopt several actionable steps. They can install high-performance heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems that utilize less energy to limit the energy requirements of the building.
Smart technology elements like smart meters, thermostats, and lighting systems can help monitor and optimize energy usage. Advanced insulation materials and double-glazed windows can minimize heat loss or gain. Energy-efficient buildings command high prices in the long run.
Minimize and Manage Waste
Construction waste is a major concern for the industry across the globe. For example, in the EU, construction and demolition waste makes up more than one-third of all waste generated. Waste management, therefore, should be in the sustainable construction checklist.
Companies can reduce construction waste by opting for prefabricated components instead of conventional methods. Additionally, they can implement recycling programs to reuse leftover materials such as concrete, metal, and wood. Converting organic waste into compost for landscaping is another effective measure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are sustainable building practices?
Green construction is a growing trend these days, and many companies are joining the bandwagon. Sustainable building practices involve designing and constructing buildings in ways that minimize environmental impact. Builders can do it by using eco-friendly materials, optimizing energy efficiency, and managing waste responsibly.
Why is green construction important?
Green construction has several benefits. To begin with, it can mitigate climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it conserves resources and improves public health through better air quality. From a financial perspective, it enhances the long-term economic viability of buildings through reduced operational costs.
How does green construction benefit the reputation of a business?
Construction is an inherently resource-intensive industry where waste management is a challenge. By adopting green techniques, a business shows its commitment to sustainability. As more people become eco-conscious, there are good chances of getting more buyers for their projects. Overall, this leads to a significant boost in the business’s reputation.
Adopting green building practices is no longer optional for construction companies. It’s a necessity for businesses aiming to stay competitive while addressing global environmental challenges. Not only does this approach benefit the planet, but it also enhances profitability and strengthens brand reputation in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
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