For years, people in the construction industry have discussed ways to build more sustainably, not just during construction but throughout the building’s lifecycle. Today, I’ll share practical tips that you can begin implementing right away, step by step. If you’re curious about how to build more sustainably starting tomorrow, you’re in the right place.
What Sustainable Construction Focuses On
Sustainable construction aims to minimize environmental impact throughout the construction process and beyond. This means responsibly building and maintaining projects and ensuring efficient use of resources for the building’s lifecycle.
One example is Net Zero buildings. These require extensive coordination, particularly with power companies, to implement solar panels, additional insulation, and energy-efficient systems.
While some may think it takes a decade to recoup the investment in a sustainable building, the numbers often show that the return on investment comes much sooner. Energy-efficient buildings are not only more valuable but also help save costs in the long term.
The Truth About Sustainable Construction
Sustainability goes beyond political or religious beliefs; it’s about being more responsible with our resources, reducing our impact, and creating systems that are self-sufficient and cost-effective. It’s about doing more with less—using materials more wisely and designing buildings that are easier to maintain and energy-efficient.
Important Factors to Consider for a Sustainable Design
Sustainable construction begins with thoughtful design. Key elements include passive solar heating, natural ventilation, energy-efficient lighting, and early coordination with utility companies. Everything starts in the design phase. Asking the right questions and getting your team involved early on helps steer the project in a more sustainable direction.
How to Be More Sustainable Through Material Selection
Choosing eco-friendly materials that can be recycled or reproduced is crucial. It’s essential to consider the environmental impact of materials, from manufacturing and production to transportation. These conversations should be held with the design team and trade partners to ensure that sustainability is prioritized.
How to Integrate More Energy-Efficient Systems
Energy-efficient systems are at the heart of sustainable construction. These include HVAC systems, LED lighting, solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal heating. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and improving insulation, windows, and doors, you can significantly enhance energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling demands, especially in areas with extreme temperatures.
Focusing on Water Conservation in a Project
Water conservation is another key aspect of sustainability. Consider low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads, along with rainwater harvesting systems for non-potable uses such as irrigation and toilet flushing. These solutions help reduce water waste and enhance efficiency.
Being Sustainable With Waste Management
Waste management plays a significant role in sustainable construction. From recycling materials during demolition to salvaging asphalt for milling, effective waste management strategies can drastically reduce environmental impact. Permanent recycling systems should be established on-site to promote sustainable practices during construction.
How to Be More Sustainable in Construction
Beyond the technical aspects, there are additional high-level strategies to consider. Focus on indoor environmental quality through natural lighting and ventilation, use green construction practices like prefabrication and modular construction, and build durable facilities that are easy to maintain.
Regular education and training on sustainable practices ensure that your team remains on the cutting edge and adds value to the projects you’re building.
The bottom line? Sustainability in construction is about knowing what’s out there, asking the right questions during the design phase, and taking small steps to implement better practices. On any project, there’s something you can do tomorrow to make a difference—just by starting the conversation.
If you want to learn more we have:
-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here)
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here)
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)
Discover Jason’s Expertise:
Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.
On we go!