The construction industry is driven by the goal of making significant alterations to the natural world, with the noble intention of creating the infrastructure necessary for human society to thrive. Construction crews transform empty plots into towering skyscrapers, vast highways, and other marvels of modern engineering.
However, the environmental impact of construction is not always positive. It can deplete natural resources and contribute to pollution if not carefully controlled. Consequently, many businesses in the industry have adopted sustainable building practices to mitigate these effects. By taking accountability for their ecological impact, builders and developers can ensure that their contributions are beneficial.
Sustainability in Action
Road construction offers a clear example of sustainable practices. Historically, resurfacing roads required substantial resources, including asphalt and the replacement of unstable soils. Today, innovative methods are being used to address these challenges.
Modern road construction often involves milling existing pavement on-site and reusing it as a base layer, conserving resources and minimizing waste. Additionally, instead of exporting wet soils that are difficult to compact, companies now use soil stabilization techniques to dry and stabilize these soils on-site.
In the realm of general contracting, green design principles are becoming more prevalent. Living roofs, which feature plants that cool buildings and enhance air quality, are increasingly common. Projects are also incorporating materials like bamboo, which replenishes more quickly than traditional wood products. Building information modeling (BIM) is another advancement that allows for more efficient planning and reduced waste.
Continued construction is vital for human development, but it must be done responsibly to minimize environmental harm. To explore more about the innovative practices shaping the construction industry, refer to the infographic featured alongside this post.
Sustainability In Construction this infographic was contributed by Rock Solid Stabilization & Reclamation, an organization specializing in soil stabilization services
