We talk a lot about “sustainability,” but do you know what it means? Today, it’s a combination of the two main definitions of the word.
Sustainability means to last; endure. It also means to exist for as long as possible without depleting natural resources and build in a way that maintains an ecological balance.
Prioritizing Sustainable Construction
Sustainability isn’t simply a nice goal. It’s a process, and one we need for future generations. The American Chemistry Council (ACC) drafted 3 guidelines for building designs and sustainable construction:
- Establishing “sustainable” building/product practices should include:
- Open for all stakeholders
- Based upon scientific facts
- Transparent
- Up-to-date
- Energy efficiency and environmental performance should:
- Focus on how individual components interact within the building system
- Identify options to improve energy efficiency
- Seek ways to reduce overall environmental effects
- Environmental considerations and energy efficiency should be balanced with:
- Performance
- Price
- Product availability
- Product safety
Real-World Sustainable Construction
We know when push comes to shove, the stakeholders in a construction project make the decisions about materials and methodologies. Fortunately for our planet, sustainable construction is more than admirable; it’s affordable.
With today’s technology, materials can be lightweight and cost less while promoting sustainability. Using recycled plastics and laminated timbers can cut our carbon footprint.
We can improve our methodologies, too. Other sustainable construction methods include:
- Conserving energy
- Constructing “green” buildings
- Managing construction sites to improve the environment
- No smoking
- Onsite water filtration
- Recycling bins
- More precise materials measurements to reduce shortages (and leftovers)
- Using less to reduce waste
Building Your Business
The future is now. Sustainable construction is a business direction you must take.
Successful construction industry companies embrace green building and technology. Construction Monitor has “big data” for your business, and it’s customized for where you are or where you want to be. For example, if you’re considering expanding sustainable construction options, we’ve got data for using solar as an alternative energy.
Contact Construction Monitor to learn more.