Guest Post
Sustainability is a hot topic in every industry, so why should the construction business lag behind. Unfortunately, this industry is riddled with negative public perceptions of how construction can never be sustainable or how it harms the ecosystem. The truth is that sustainability can be successfully adopted in any construction business. Let us learn more about it.
Different Sustainability Issues You Must Consider
Use of Innovation
Various construction projects must showcase innovative approaches that aid in sustainable development. It is equally essential that the innovations and discoveries are transferrable to a range of other applications. Innovation should be applied in design, structure, mechanical systems, integration of methods and materials that lead to sustainability. Use of innovative sustainable equipment must also be considered.
Adherence to Ethical Standards
All construction projects must adhere to ethical standards without fail. At the same time, social inclusion must be promoted at every stage of construction — right from planning, to building and finally servicing it. You must make sure that your construction projects leave a positive impact on the communities as well. Participation of users, the neighborhood affiliations, non-government authorities, local authorities and stakeholders should be encouraged. Ensure that you give attention to the quality of working conditions and that the workers are given a fair compensation, a safe working environment, other benefits and that there is no bias towards gender or religion. Maintain political transparency and execute unbiased processes which help in preventing corruption at any level.
Economic Viability
The construction business does not just entail making lots of buildings and other structures. The economic viability of each project must be considered. Before you start any project, check if it can promote an economy of means and whether it is compatible with the needs and demands through the construction’s lifespan. Consider innovative models that can bring the overall cost down. Ensure that all the funds are sourced legitimately and that the transactions are transparent. The construction projects must be affordable and a structure’s operating costs must be determined in reference to returns on investment. Lastly, there should be flexibility for every structure to adapt to the future changes in various aspects such as the laws, user needs, ownership, regulations and economic fluctuations.
4 Ways to Achieve Sustainable Construction
Using Low-Impact Construction Materials
A lot of energy is expended on manufacturing various construction materials. To reduce this usage, you can incorporate low-impact building materials such as repurposed or recycled building materials. Use construction materials that come from naturally occurring elements containing recycled waste and content such as blown paper insulation. You can even use materials that are sourced from other building sites. Use truck scales to bring down the waste levels too. Modular buildings are becoming quite popular as they minimize wasted materials, decrease the construction time, are durable and can be reused and recycled continually.
Using Alternative Energy Sources
Using renewable sources of energy goes a long way in helping you become a sustainable construction company. Reduce the fuel footprint of your company by using wind, solar or hydro energy. Various equipments are also being designed to promote sustainability. For example, the Diesel Oxidation Catalysts convert exhaust gases into carbon dioxide and water when they pass through them.
Reducing Waste at Construction Sites
Construction of any structure generates a considerable amount of waste that consists of different construction materials such as roofing, drywall, metal, cardboard, glass, insulation, etc. Instead of just chucking out every ounce of generated waste, make an effort to reduce it. Explore how you can reuse or recycle different materials. Set up programs that focus on waste prevention. Join hands with suppliers who take unused materials at the end of a project or work with those who practice sustainability themselves. Use construction truck scales to accurately weigh the materials to avoid getting an excessive quantity which would eventually result in wastage.
Practicing Inter-Company Sustainability
More and more construction companies are implementing sustainability practices within their premises and are actively seeking LEED certification for their facilities. You can implement recycle programs and train your staff in this field. Partner with other companies who practice sustainability to maximize your efforts.
The next time someone says that the construction business cannot be sustainable, you can prove them wrong!
Author Bio:
Kevin Hill heads up the marketing efforts and provides technical expertise to the sales and service teams at Quality Scales Unlimited in Byron, California. He enjoys everything mechanical and electronic, computers, the internet and spending time with family.