Considering the climate crisis, all industries are eager to pave the way for greener solutions. Thankfully, construction is no exception. There are several ways in which construction is working towards sustainability. For instance, responsible choices in building and transporting chosen materials and elements are taking priority when it comes to new construction, hoping to reduce the levels of pollution endured by the environment.
What Can the Industry Focus On?
Due to the many elements of construction, multiple areas require focus. The industry is responsible for an extensive production of greenhouse gases, so it is crucial that building firms and suppliers play their part in making environmentally friendly decisions. The industry can help by focusing on:
- Reducing Fuel – The heavy machinery and trucks used in construction are notorious for burning fossil fuels. To tackle this issue, hybrid gas-electric and entirely electric machinery and trucks are in high demand. These alternatives are an investment for the future, effectively cutting down on pollution.
- Eco-Conscious Designing – The design process is one of the most important when it comes to working towards sustainable construction. This is where materials and features are chosen and where natural sources should be considered where possible. It is important now, more than ever, to build with the climate crisis in mind.
- Reusing and Recycling – Waste disposal is to blame for a sizable portion of fossil fuel burning and greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, reusing and recycling waste so that it does not end up in landfill or at incineration plants is essential. The longevity of materials like concrete and steel is often overlooked, which is something the industry aims to avoid when moving forward.
- Sustainable Materials – The structure itself can contribute to a sustainable future if eco-friendly materials are sourced from a trustworthy supplier like WR Meadows, who are keen to go green. With sustainable materials readily available, much that has been recycled and can be reused again, this is a feasible area for the industry to improve from now on.
- Off-Site Construction – Contrary to traditional methods, the industry is adopting an off-site approach to building projects. This includes designing, planning, manufacturing, and pre-assembling elements and components for construction in a factory environment, before installing on-site. So far, this has been shown to shorten project delivery times and reduce waste, having a positive knock-on effect for sustainability by limiting pollution.
- Upgrading Equipment – A straightforward way to make a difference is to invest in quality. By upgrading the equipment used in construction, it is likely to be more efficient. Limiting the usage of energy and improving its efficiency can help the industry to go green successfully.
What Should the Industry Use?
Now the focus for the industry has been established, we can identify the resources available to carry out these changes. Most of the alternatives needed to fulfill these goals are already available, meaning that the industry has been able to begin working towards sustainability. In setting an example for the future, construction has and should continue to source:
- Energy-Efficient Machinery and Transport – Especially machinery and transport that uses electricity for power as this is known to pollute the environment less. Unlike coal and gas, which are infamous for contributing to global warming.
- Sustainable Materials – Using materials that have been recycled (like a structure that can be upgraded) or natural materials (like timber and geo-textiles) in construction is necessary for building greener. Many people are hesitant to trust sustainable materials for fear that they will offer less durability but if a reliable supply chain is formed, sustainable materials are competitive in quality and in many cases more desirable.
- Renewable Energy – As eco-friendly homes become more popular, so do renewable sources of energy. Most favorably, solar panels. Installing solar panels is simple and effective at building a more energy-efficient world and working towards sustainability.
It is evident that the plan of action for construction to go green is progressing. The industry is already focusing on eco-friendly designs that use energy-efficient machinery and transport methods, sustainable materials for the build, and renewable energy sources to be installed for post-construction benefits. Reusing and recycling more is a target for the industry which is known for heavy waste – and as a result, pollution. To drastically make a difference to the amount of fossil fuels burned to reverse the damage to the environment, committing to these changes is required from people in the construction industry.