Keeping sustainable construction on the agenda

Sustainability has been integral to responsible construction for years. As greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions rise and the impacts of biodiversity loss become ever clearer, the construction industry continues to face up to its environmental challenges. But with many competing priorities, how can sustainable construction stay at the top of the agenda?

Construction’s environmental impact

There is no denying that the construction industry has a large impact on the planet. Producing buildings also produces GHG emissions and pollution, as well as pushing the planet closer to exceeding critical thresholds.

In total, the Built Environment is responsible for around 40% of global carbon emissions. Construction uses about half of all raw materials extracted, while it is also the second largest driver of man-made pressure on biodiversity.

Sustainable construction methods

Thankfully, the construction industry has faced up to its environmental commitments. Measures to reduce the sector’s impacts on the planet include championing the use of renewable and recycled materials, implementing energy-efficient systems, adopting circular construction practices and implementing water conservation methods.

All of these details form part of the larger goal of sustainable construction. This planet-friendly approach to building means prioritising structures that respect natural resources and surrounding communities.

Sustainable construction means thinking about the environmental impact of building within the design, construction and operation of buildings. In the design phase, firms can plan more sustainable buildings by selecting recycled, renewable or locally sourced materials. On-site recycling and material reuse programmes can reduce the impact of the build phase. Finally, delivering buildings that lower embodied carbon by only requiring renewable energy has a huge impact in the operation phase.

Sustainable solutions

Faced with growing pressure from tightening budgets and labour shortages, sustainable construction can sometimes feel squeezed. The key to remaining relevant is to be part of the solution: rather than adding another headache for construction managers, sustainability should be integrated into everything the industry does.

By putting sustainability at the forefront, the construction industry can increase its resilience against challenges in the present, while also insulating itself against future threats. For example, sustainable buildings reduce the risk of stranded assets, while retrofitting existing buildings improves the overall sustainability of housing stock.

It pays to go green

Sustainable construction offers appealing long-term financial advantages. Following sustainable design principles typically leads to lower energy costs in the medium term, while sustainable buildings often attract higher market values. Indeed, research by Green Alliance shows that reusing and recycling building materials, as part of a wider circular approach, can boost profitability by up to 26%.

Sustainable construction generates less waste, reduces GHG emissions and can be a crucial building block for a brighter future for everyone. Done well, it’s win, win, win!