In lieu of all the natural disasters that have occurred recently, there has been a big push for individuals to take part in preserving the planet. Individuals are being asked to participate in “green” initiatives and businesses are encouraged to utilize eco-friendly practices.
But, why should you care?
Well, construction companies are in a great position to make a difference and elicit change. By participating in “green” practices, not only will this earn your company a positive reputation but, you’ll be doing yourself a favor by making the Earth a more habitable place for many more years to come.
So, how can you do your part to save Mother Earth?
The following are some eco-friendly practices that your construction business should consider utilizing for future projects and developments.
Reduce Disruptions to Natural Environments.
Aim to build in areas where the agricultural and ecological footprint are minimized. Disturbing natural habitats is never encouraged. If unavoidable, consider using local plants in your landscaping plans and specify habitat replacement/creation wherever and whenever possible. An example of this would be placing nesting boxes for birds and bats in designated areas.
Use Responsible Materials.
During your builds, try and use sustainable materials like recycled glass and steel when possible. Consider installing energy-efficient windows and doors, using lower-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and stains, utilizing renewable energy to power the building, and adding water harvesting and purification systems to make the most use of rainfall.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint.
According to data collected by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), roughly 14 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions can be attributed to transportation. The construction industry can greatly reduce their overall contribution in several ways. Construction companies may consider switching to more efficient vehicles which produce fewer emissions per mile. If possible, source materials locally which will help reduce the distance needed to transport the materials. Additionally, select materials that either weigh less or can be packed more efficiently to help reduce the number of trips needed to transport the materials.
Minimize Waste.
During projects, from an efficiency standpoint, minimizing waste should always be a priority. From an ecological standpoint, reducing waste helps minimize landfill contributions, which in turn is better for the environment. If waste is created however, think of resourceful ways in which the materials can be reused, either on the same project or subsequent projects thereafter.
Change does not just happen overnight. To make a difference, it takes individuals and businesses like YOU to consciously make eco-friendly decisions every day. The more “green” practices you choose to implement, the greater the impact you can expect to see. Even the slightest of choices can have a ripple effect, setting an entire wave in motion.