Construction is an industry that has a significant impact on the environment. Some may think it is difficult to adopt a sustainable approach to constructing buildings, roads, bridges, etc. Let’s explore the issues.
This article will present what sustainable construction is, and who benefits when companies pursue this strategy.
What Is Sustainable Construction?
The United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines sustainable construction as “the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s life-cycle from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and deconstruction.” Adding to this definition is the concept that sustainable construction methods should include protection of the environment through the use of sustainable construction materials, and minimizing waste through the reuse and recycling of resources. When engaging in sustainable construction events and projects, companies need to think about the stakeholders involved, such as the client, local government, and the community.
It is recommended that construction companies adopt sustainable practices that not only focus on construction but also on long-term maintenance and operation.
The three main considerations in sustainability in construction are the environment, community health/safety, and economics. Construction businesses should be concerned with all three. For example, the tools and machinery used in construction projects require a lot of energy that is most often not derived from renewable sources. The utilized energy contributes to overall resources’ consumption and can adversely affect the environment by causing emissions.
It is estimated that the construction industry produces anywhere between 25% to 40% of the planet’s carbon footprint. And, according to the EPA in 2018 over 600 million tons of construction and demolition materials were generated in the United States, which is more than twice the amount of generated municipal solid waste. One may think that sustainable construction important takes a lot of effort and is very costly. However, the benefits for everyone become apparent over time.
Generally speaking, the benefits are divided into the aforementioned three categories – community-based, environmental and financial. And the benefits in each category can overlap.
Community-Based Benefits
Safer materials and increased productivity in every phase of the construction project life-cycle improves the overall quality of life for communities worldwide.
Not only do those who live near the construction site benefit, but also those who work for it. Apart from minimizing the global ineffective resource consumption, sustainable construction positively effects communities by increasing productivity, improving health conditions and minimizing waste. According to the EPA another benefit to communities that pursue sustainability is the increase in business and employment opportunities in the recycling industry. More jobs equal more productivity.
Environmental Benefits
The primary benefit to the environment is reduced waste and less energy consumption. Also, importantly sustainable construction reduces the environmental impact associated with the extraction and consumption of virgin resources.
Economic Benefits
One may be surprised, but green buildings cost less than traditional buildings.
In sustainable construction, companies save money due to reduced energy and water consumption.
Those savings exceed any type of premium cost when designing and constructing sustainable buildings. That is why green construction promises a high ROI (Return on Investment).
So, what steps can each individual construction company take to build sustainably and reduce the negative impact on the environment? Try sustainable construction initiatives like LEED!
What is LEED?
There are global standards that evaluate green buildings and assess the benefits mentioned above.
LEED or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design is a global green building certification program. It includes a set of systems that rate buildings’ design, construction, and maintenance.
Most of the LEED-certified buildings are located in the US, which are recognized as efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly.
The LEED-certified buildings are not only good for the environment but also for the construction companies. A LEED certification will enhance construction companies’ image and reputation as society perceives green buildings more positively. Those businesses will become the leaders in green building.
If a construction company wants to LEED certify its building, it needs to achieve a minimum number of points in each category.
According to LEED, the categories are the following:
LEED certification is one of the most important certifications worldwide which shows the high value of buildings. Companies that have their projects certified by LEED can set higher lease rates.
Finally, construction businesses are big consumers of natural resources and affect the environment significantly. While there are challenges for those companies to stay sustainable, there are also many benefits. Adopting sustainable construction practices is essential for reducing environmental impact and promoting long-term sustainability. It is recommended that construction companies continue to evolve and make the world a better place to live for everyone.
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