How the construction industry is embracing sustainability

Photo by Jeriden Villegas on Unsplash

Businesses are embracing the benefits of sustainable business practices more frequently as they strive to find ways to heal some of the damage humanity has done to the planet. One industry that you may not associate with sustainability is construction, especially when considering the use of heavy machinery and the subsequent emissions. However, there are multiple examples of the construction industry embracing sustainable practices. 

Green energy 

The construction industry requires energy for most tasks and projects, whether powering drills or larger vehicles designed to break the ground below. There has recently been an increase in construction sites using various renewable energy resources and reducing reliance on traditional fuel and energy sources. While the industry–and much of the equipment used–still has a lot of catching up to do, this is a step in the right direction and proves that it is possible to use renewable energy with the same results. 

Renewable materials 

Another area that is showing improvements is the type of materials used in construction. Instead of focusing on materials that are difficult to recycle or discarding perfectly good pieces of wood, construction companies are using more renewable materials and reusing parts that could be applied elsewhere. Materials like wood and sustainable concrete are all common on modern construction sites. 

Reduced material waste 

Similarly, construction sites work with manufacturers to use tools and equipment that drastically reduce material wastage, ensuring there is no (or at least little) overflow and preventing the extra work of delivering or returning unused materials. One example is conveyor belt skirting for sealing systems which significantly reduces severe material loss around the conveyor belt zone. Such an improvement benefits the planet, the company, and the project manager as it enables them to remain within budget and have a clever idea of a project’s overall cost.

Increased knowledge 

Improving sustainability practices requires education, but this is not something that all companies have access to immediately. In cases like this, many construction sites have worked with sustainability consultants to guide them through effective changes and identify areas where sustainability could be improved. He argued that every business in every industry could benefit from a sustainability consultant, as it can highlight several issues that require immediate attention and will help normalize sustainability as a worldwide business practice. 

Better cost-efficiency 

Better cost efficiency will also benefit the construction industry as well as clients and consumers. Still, embracing sustainable practices comes with a higher cost for raw materials since the industry requires high-quality materials that last a lifetime. Project managers are learning how to manage these costs, and it should come as no surprise there is a significant push for more affordable sustainable materials. Once providers can find a way to generate and distribute the most dependable and robust materials for an affordable price, sustainable construction can truly take off.

Sustained 

There is still a long way to go, but a strong focus on sustainability can improve the planet while also proving there are better ways to fulfill project demands. These are just some examples of how a construction company–or even any enterprise–can improve its approach and boost its sustainability rating for a better future.