Sustainable construction is a construction that has a low lifetime environmental cost. This can be achieved via various means, such as using renewable and recyclable resources, passive solar design to reduce lifetime energy consumption, and practices that reduce waste and environmental impact during construction. Global Impact of Commercial Construction The construction industry has a large environmental footprint globally. ● ● ● ●
It uses 25-40 percent of all energy It uses 30 percent of all raw materials It accounts for 30-40 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions It accounts for 30-40% of solid waste generation.
Thus, it is imperative that the construction industry rise to the occasion and do its part to help create a sustainable world. Benefits Environmental: Reducing the lifetime energy and water costs and minimizing site impact during the construction phase help fight against climate change and also help preserve and promote biodiversity. Financial: Although green buildings are often seen as expensive compared to other buildings, this is a misperception. They typically use more expensive materials and have higher upfront costs, but they also are worth more than other buildings and have lower carrying costs. Such buildings frequently have a better bottom line in the long run. Social: Passive solar design usually results in a building that is physically more comfortable for the occupants, who generally experience better health and well-being as a result. This has also been shown to improve productivity for workers in such buildings. Sustainable Materials There are many sustainable materials available to the construction industry. Here are just a few: Wood: Although clear-cutting old-growth forests are bad, the wood itself is a renewable resource. It just needs to be managed properly. Recycled materials: Plastic, glass, and even metal can be recycled and reused in the construction process. From eco-friendly glass tiles to plastic bricks, there is a wide and growing variety of recycled materials from which to choose. Brick: Kiln-fired bricks are a longstanding construction staple and are typically made from local clay. Wool bricks are also available and also sustainable.