As the global population grows, the more natural resources we consume and will consume. Natural resources are the very basic component of all things manmade and manufactured. The abundance of these resources is limited, and their consumption and the way we plan to use it has huge long-term impacts on our planet and future generations.
The construction industry is one of the leading users of natural resources. With the current global climate change issues, there is increasing pressure on the built industry to minimize its environmental impact.
Sustainable construction is a method of materials and product adaptation in construction that will facilitate lesser usage of natural resources and allow recycling and repurposing of such materials for the same purpose without compromising quality. It is also a way of using recyclable and renewable materials in building projects, minimizing both waste production and energy consumption. To name a few, current sustainable practices in place are in the form of choosing construction materials with low environmental impact, repurposing concrete that came from previous construction, renovation or demolition, incorporating glass in the design of the building to allow in natural daylight, solar panels, and usage of prefabricated models and units to reduce production waste.
This method does not end after the completion of the project. The building design should also have minimal impact on the environment over the structure’s lifespan, meaning the design should incorporate elements and materials that have a continuous influence on the structure’s environmental impact.
Sustainable construction will continue to become more important every year as climate change’s effects are seen worldwide. Whether it’s a shortage of materials or price hikes, the built industry needs to explore more ways to construct buildings sustainably to ensure a brighter green future for the next generations.
