Sustainability is about finding ways to prevent or lessen the environmental problems that impact our ability to lead healthy, long lives. It’s also about striving to use natural resources responsibly so they can be replenished.
Infrastructure development plays a crucial role in a country’s progress, and the construction industry is continuously expanding. Experts predict a staggering 85 percent increase in global building production by 2030, amounting to a remarkable $15.5 trillion. While this growth is promising for construction firms, it comes at an environmental cost.
The methods, materials, and activities involved in construction have far-reaching effects on the environment, exacerbating climate change. The construction sector contributes to approximately 25 to 40% of total global carbon emissions. It’s projected that emissions from commercial buildings may rise by up to 1.8% by 2030. The extraction of minerals for building materials, often transported globally, involves the use of fossil fuels, emitting greenhouse gases.
Additionally, construction projects can disrupt wildlife habitats. For instance, roads in rainforests may obstruct migration routes, while dams can redirect water away from freshwater ecosystems. Oil spills from rigs can harm marine life and contaminate coastlines.
The oil and gas industries, particularly in upstream and downstream sectors, contribute to environmental pollution through water, noise, and air pollution. This leads to detrimental effects on agriculture, landscapes, and forestry, ultimately creating an unsustainable living environment for both humans and wildlife.
For example, Nigeria is a major contributor to global gas flaring emissions, accounting for 16% of total associated gas flared worldwide. This has detrimental effects on crop growth and has led to increased food prices in the Niger Delta region. It has also resulted in conflicts between local communities, the government, and oil companies, prompting some firms to relocate to other countries.
Civil engineers play a pivotal role in mitigating the environmental impact of construction. Here are six key points to consider for a more sustainable future:
Buildings account for over 40% of global energy consumption and contribute to a third of greenhouse gas emissions. This holds true for both developed and developing nations. The majority of emissions stem from building energy usage, including electricity, lighting, heating, and cooling.
A building’s impact on the environment extends beyond its construction phase. Over 80% of a building’s greenhouse gas emissions occur during its operational phase. Focus on retrofitting existing buildings and constructing new ones with environmental considerations to reduce emissions.
Governments play a crucial role in setting energy performance standards and targets for new buildings. They should also provide training for assessors to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
A well-defined environmental management plan, contingency plans, and proper equipment selection are essential for minimizing environmental impact during construction. Adequate material control measures should also be in place to reduce waste generation.
Embracing technological advancements in the construction industry can lead to increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact. This not only benefits the environment but also enhances profit margins and a company’s reputation as a sustainability leader.
Minimizing construction emissions has positive economic implications, accounting for a significant portion of global GDP and employment. Investing in greener building methods can create new jobs and enterprises.
A thorough examination of sustainability issues in construction reveals the need for a shift towards more environmentally-conscious practices. By implementing these solutions, civil engineers can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for both humans and the environment.