Construction companies are adopting sustainable construction practices and other eco-friendly strategies to ensure longevity. Everybody in the sector has woken up to the fact that depleting the earth’s resources will come at a great cost for living things. People are increasingly concerned about this and encourage the building industry to abandon old techniques that are not only destroying the environment but also costing them a lot of money. Time has come to embrace modern, safer practices in all industries for the sake of our environment
Eco-construction encompasses the use of non-toxic materials, solvents and paints. Traditional materials are a danger to people in contact with them as well as those residing in indoor spaces. Toxic paints cause respiratory issues, skin conditions and migraines among other health complications. To guarantee safety for space users, construction companies must do their bit; use eco-friendly materials in all buildings. Here are some important construction methods and alternative eco-construction solutions that are also cost-friendly.
Enhanced demolition measures
The bulk of pollution in the environment comes from the building industry, especially during demolitions. When a building is brought down; everything from steel, concrete, carpets, and flooring end up in landfills. Rather than expose people to harmful construction materials, you can recycle the steel and concrete for other jobs. Carpets and flooring can be reused in any manner to save a construction worker some cash. Recycling also saves the construction company from paying often hefty toxic waste disposal fees.
Get materials from your city
Looking at other countries for construction materials leaves a noticeable carbon footprint. The cost of transport is also heightened when you import building materials. Construction workers need to adopt better strategies like choosing locally available materials. This will have the double effect of conserving the environment and boosting the economy.
If you are a cabin builder for example; planting a forest and sustainable tree felling from it would be a good way to replenish a dwindling global forest cover. Buying steel and cement from the local factory is a good way to show the locals that you are part of the community.
Recycle water
Water is the most important resource for a construction worker, but few companies bear this in mind. Techniques such as collecting rainwater and collecting condensed water from HVAC systems are a good place to start. Recycled water can also be used for irrigation during landscaping.
Green and multi-purpose spaces
Architects, landscape developers, and designers are encouraged to plan for greener spaces and multipurpose areas. Space is increasingly limited in cities, calling for builders to construct spaces that are more versatile. Putting some plants on the office rooftop is a great way of adding on to the building’s fresh air. To save space the same rooftop can double up as a dining area.
There is an endless list of things the construction industry can do to preserve and conserve our environment. Recycling, reusing and sustainable use of resources is the first step to a cleaner and safer environment.