5 construction practices you can adopt for a greener planet
Sudeep Kolte VP Sales & Marketing, Saint Gobain India, Gyproc Business The impact of construction on the environment cannot be ignored, as traditional methods often lead to depletion of natural resources, excessive waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. The construction sector is responsible for 40% of all energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. In light of
Sudeep Kolte
VP Sales & Marketing, Saint Gobain India, Gyproc Business
The impact of construction on the environment cannot be ignored, as traditional methods often lead to depletion of natural resources, excessive waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. The construction sector is responsible for 40% of all energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
In light of this, it becomes crucial to recognise the urgent need for change and take proactive steps towards sustainability. The move to sustainable methods will require rethinking resources and processes right from planning, design and construction to maintenance and renovation to create more resilient structures. Using materials with lower embodied energy and reduced carbon footprint will see greater adoption and viability as construction techniques evolve to cater to the post pandemic world. Small steps in the right direction can make a significant difference, not only in meeting our immediate needs but also in safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Go plastic-free
One effective way to reduce environmental impact is by minimising the use of plastic in construction projects. Plastic materials contribute to pollution and take a considerable amount of time to decompose. By opting for alternative materials, such as recycled or biodegradable options, you can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste generated during construction and contribute to a healthier environment.
Pool your resources
Collaboration and resource-sharing within the construction industry can lead to more efficient and sustainable practices. By pooling resources, contractors and builders can optimise material usage, reduce waste, and lower costs. Sharing equipment, machinery, and surplus materials among different construction projects can help minimise the extraction of new resources and promote a circular economy.
Ensure fire safety measures in buildings
Ensuring fire safety measures in buildings is of paramount importance for the well-being of occupants and the overall sustainability of construction projects. By integrating effective fire safety measures in building design and construction, we can achieve multiple benefits, including the minimisation of material waste, pollution, and resource consumption.
Thermal comfort: Optimise air-conditioning load
A significant portion of energy consumption in buildings is attributed to air conditioning. To optimise energy usage and improve thermal comfort, consider using partition systems with excellent thermal properties. The lightweight gypsum plaster board system is an excellent example here, that helps reduce buildings energy consumption and contribute effectively to thermal comfort. These systems outperform conventional masonry walls in terms of thermal efficiency, reducing the reliance on artificial cooling and resulting in energy savings.
Embrace renewable energy solutions
Incorporating renewable energy solutions in construction projects can have a significant positive impact on the environment. Consider integrating solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems into building designs to generate clean and sustainable energy. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and helps combat climate change.
In conclusion, transforming construction practices for a greener planet is not only an urgent necessity but also an opportunity to create a sustainable and environmentally conscious future. By implementing the five strategies outlined above, we can make significant strides towards mitigating the negative environmental impacts of construction.
Hits: 0
