Building a Greener Future: Top 5 Sustainable Construction Practices Today

With the current environmental state, paying attention to environmental concerns has become imperative in many industries, including the construction industry. For decades, the effects of the construction sector on the environment have been widely criticized and regarded as some of the most detrimental. This has encouraged construction companies and firms to put emphasis on sustainability and focus on innovative eco-friendly solutions. 

‍

Whether you are new in the construction industry or not, having enough knowledge of sustainable construction processes can help you make informed decisions in implementing eco-friendly practices. Additionally, it may help you gain an advantage over your rivals. Read on as we discuss the overview of how construction affects the environment and the modern sustainable practices construction firms are doing today. 

Effects of Construction on the Environment - An Overview

The construction sector undoubtedly plays a pivotal role in modern society. However, one can't deny that this sector has been one of the most significant contributors to environmental damage. Believe it or not, almost 40% of global carbon dioxide emissions are generated from the real estate sector. Out of these recorded emissions, about 70% are produced by building operations. On the other hand, the remaining 30% comes from construction. Furthermore, construction has been regarded as one of the top industries linked to resource depletion, massive energy consumption, waste generation, pollution, and more. These alarming statistics and concerns highlight the need for the industry to prioritize sustainable practices and reduce its carbon footprint. 

Modern Sustainable Construction Practices

While the construction sector has successfully provided safe and comfortable living spaces and diverse environments for businesses to flourish through conventional methods, the industry is embracing new sustainable methods to build a greener future. Here are the top five modern innovative practices of construction today.

1. Integrating Digital Technologies Such as IoT Sensors and AI to Optimize Material and Resource Usage 

IoT sensors and AI are undeniably the biggest trends in present-day sustainable construction practices. They have entirely changed construction companies' methodologies and helped minimize their environmental footprint. Below we discuss these technological advancements in further detail.

IoT Sensors

The Internet of Things, or simply referred to as IoT, is the interconnection of devices and equipment via the Internet. It allows the collection and analysis of data across various devices. IoT devices, particularly sensors, have been widely used in monitoring equipment and processes in the construction sector. With IoT sensors, construction companies can optimize their usage of construction materials and resources. Additionally, IoT sensors can predict the need for maintenance and increased safety.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized different industrial processes, from events management to construction planning. AI has helped in faster business processes as well as enhancing communication and collaboration in the workplace. Additionally, it is being utilized to analyze data and develop solutions for reducing the environmental effects of thriving businesses. In construction, AI plays a pivotal role in resource management and waste reduction. It helps track material consumption and predicts the quantities needed to reduce wastage. Additionally, it helps estimate the project timeline, helping construction managers optimize material and resource use. Not only is AI beneficial in resource management but also in the estimation of costs of future construction projects.

2. Implementing Sustainable Engineering to Reduce Emissions and Waste

Sustainable engineering is a form of engineering focused on integrating ecological, societal, and economic factors into the planning, designing, development, and maintenance of civil infrastructure. From commercial buildings to water systems, sustainable engineering establishes a plan that meets future generations' needs while managing the environmental effects of construction. As per an Oxford report, some areas that sustainable engineering prioritizes are the following:

1. Waste disposal and management 
2. Pollution reduction 
3. Energy development and consumption
4. Restoring natural environments
5. Water supplies 

The adoption of sustainable engineering brings numerous advantages, including decreased environmental impacts and enhanced resource efficiency. Additionally, it helps improve the quality of life for communities and reduces building and maintenance costs.

3. Operating Assets and Equipment in an Energy-Efficient Manner to Control Energy Generation

Efficient energy usage is one of the leading sustainable efforts of various industries, and the construction industry is no exception. Today's construction companies prioritize energy efficiency throughout the entire lifecycle of their projects, from construction to repairs and maintenance. By operating equipment in an energy-efficient manner, the construction sector can help reduce carbon emissions and decrease air pollution. Additionally, it helps reduce costs, allowing them to achieve higher financial gains. At present, more and more companies are also opting for newly developed energy-efficient construction equipment that requires lesser energy to function. They are utilizing a mix of passive renewable energy strategies for energy conservation.

4. Sourcing Materials Ethically and Responsibly from Eco-Conscious Suppliers

Responsible and ethical sourcing of materials has become a focal point for many industries, including the construction sector. Many construction companies today actively implement progressive and responsible sourcing policies to contribute to a more eco-friendly and socially responsible industry. They also seek to establish local supply chains that prioritize ethical business practices, such as promoting sustainable production and protecting human rights. 

5. Creating Long-Term Strategies That Prioritize Sustainability

The current ecological state evidently indicates that band-aid solutions or temporary fixes are no longer effective. As such, construction companies are developing long-term sustainable approaches. At present, we observe a continuous effort to address issues such as resource consumption, waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. There are also numerous researches and sustainable project initiatives led by various construction leaders today.

‍

Some of the widely talked about long-term sustainable solutions for the construction sector are the following:

1. Using renewable energy, such as solar power
2. Recycling and building with waste materials such as plastic 
3. Opting for a sustainable alternative for concrete to cut carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 50%
4. Utilization of durable and long-lasting mud bricks and wool bricks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
5. Developing green building rating systems and certifications to encourage and recognize sustainable building efforts
6. Incorporating green infrastructure, such as green roofs, to improve energy efficiency

By having long-term sustainable strategies, companies do not just contribute to a greener future but also stay in compliance with evolving environmental regulations. Additionally, it can lead to cost savings through improved energy efficiency and waste reduction. 

Are You Doing Enough to Fulfill Your Environmental Duties?

If you are working in the construction sector, you have probably looked into different sustainable practices in building, maintaining, and repairing buildings. But have you also considered how you can manage your construction company in a more eco-friendly way? If not, this is the best time to take the first step and discover StaffConnect.

‍

StaffConnect is a business management software designed to promote paperless operations. It is equipped with a built-in database to store all text, images, and other project details in digital form. It also has advanced communication and management tools allowing you to facilitate 100% remote work and reduce the carbon footprint from daily travel to your office. It also helps save time in work processes, so you can save more energy and spend more time on things that matter to you. 

‍

Experience a whole new level of productivity and efficiency in your processes while caring for the environment with StaffConnect. Schedule your free demo today and learn more about StaffConnect’s innovative features and tools.